Nigeria has reached a new milestone in international fencing after Nigeria Fencing Federation chief Adeyinka Samuel emerged as the new head of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation.
Samuel secured the top position during the CFF’s Annual General Meeting and election held on Saturday at Rugby School Nigeria in Atlantic City, defeating the organisation’s sitting president, Marie-France Dufour.
The Nigerian administrator received 14 votes, while Dufour managed six.
His election marks a historic moment for the sport, as Samuel becomes the first Nigerian and African to occupy the highest office in the Commonwealth fencing body. The position had previously been held by representatives from nations including Scotland, Australia and Canada.
Samuel’s appointment comes as Nigeria prepares to host the Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, with fencers from more than 20 countries expected to compete.
The Lagos event will also introduce U-23 and wheelchair fencing competitions as official medal events, giving athletes in those categories a greater opportunity to compete for honours.
Delegates at the election commended Samuel for his record and described his rise from elite competitor to federation administrator as evidence of his experience and commitment to developing fencing.
During his time leading the Nigeria Fencing Federation, the country has hosted several major international competitions, including FIE-approved Junior World Cups and African Championships.
Nigeria is also set to make another mark by becoming the first African country to stage the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships.
