Twelve Nigerian fencers have entered camp in preparation for the 2025 African Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place in Lagos from June 25 to 29.

The national team, consisting of 12 athletes, is currently training at the Lagos Fencing Club in Lekki under the supervision of Italian coach Riccardo Bardine. His appointment is part of a strategic four-year collaboration between the Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF) and the Italian Fencing Federation. The partnership is designed to enhance the growth of fencing in Nigeria through technical expertise and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Leading the Nigerian squad are top-ranked fencer Inkosi Brou, U.S.-based talent Peluola Akinbamiro, and local standout Wisdom Okanlawon.

According to the NFF, 26 African nations have confirmed participation in the championship, with over 200 athletes expected to compete.

“Our athletes have never been this prepared,” said NFF President Adeyinka Samuel. “We’ve focused heavily on coaching development, international exposure, and elite training camps. Backed by the home crowd, our team is ready—physically and mentally—to make history.”

“Team Nigeria is set for action,” he added. “With support from an Italian coach, joint training sessions with other African teams, and resources in nutrition, conditioning, and mental coaching, our athletes are not just chasing medals—they’re paving the way for future generations of Nigerian fencers.”

Among the top contenders is 22-year-old Mohamed El-Sayed of Egypt, current world number one and Paris 2024 Olympic silver medalist. He will be joined by his younger brother Mahmoud El-Sayed, the reigning Junior World Champion and current Junior World No. 1, forming a strong Egyptian team.

The competition will be held at Charterhouse Lagos, the same venue that hosted Nigeria’s first-ever Fencing World Cup last year.