Fencing isn’t the first sport that comes to mind when you think about Nigeria. It’s not football or basketball, and it’s not one of those sports kids play in the streets. Yet, in the background, beyond the noise of mainstream sports, fencing in Nigeria has been quietly growing.
In December 2024, Nigeria hosted its first-ever Fencing World Cup, a historic milestone for the country and sub-Saharan Africa. It marked a turning point, showing that fencing in Nigeria isn’t just a niche hobby—it’s a sport with serious ambitions. With more young athletes picking up the blade, international exposure increasing, and structured development programs taking shape, one question remains:
Can Nigeria qualify for the 2028 Olympics in fencing?
It’s a long road, full of challenges, but the dream is alive.
The Journey So Far
Fencing in Nigeria began its proper development in 1997 when Chief Rotarian Kayode Aderinokun, a successful entrepreneur, established the Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF). Despite his limited experience in sports, Aderinokun played a crucial role in putting Nigerian fencing on the map. Under his leadership, Nigeria saw its first female sabre fencer, Jacquiline Esimaje, qualify for the 2004 Athens Olympics.
However, for reasons unknown, Nigeria declined to send Esimaje to the Olympics. Since no other African fencers had world rankings in women’s sabre, the vacated spot went to the highest-ranked athlete who had not previously qualified for the Athens Games.
Subsequent leadership, including Dr. Bidemi Odeleye (2007-2011) and Adeyinka Samuel (2011-present), has further strengthened fencing’s presence in Nigeria. The introduction of the Fencing in Schools program in 2011, along with coaching development and international training camps, has allowed the sport to grow.
The Growth of Fencing in Nigeria
Today, fencing in Nigeria continues to expand. The country boasts over 100 active fencers and three internationally certified Fencing Master Coaches. Domestic competitions and grassroots programs have also increased participation levels. University participation is growing, and cadet fencing clubs are popping up, creating a community of passionate athletes.
Yet, challenges remain. Funding is a major obstacle, with most athletes relying on personal or family support. Infrastructure is also limited, with few dedicated fencing facilities across the country. Currently, the Lagos Fencing Club is the biggest facility, but there’s also the Maitre Harry Fencing Academy in Port Harcourt, among a few others. Unlike football or basketball, fencing isn’t yet a widely accessible sport at the grassroots level. But despite these hurdles, Nigerian fencers are proving they belong on the world stage.
A New Generation of Nigerian Fencers
Young talents like Oluwasemilore Fasola, Olabaderinwa Martins, and Olumuyiwa Ige Jr. have been making their presence felt in international competitions, pushing the boundaries of what Nigerian fencers can achieve.
One standout name is Inkosi Brou, an American-born Nigerian fencer who, as of January 2025, holds a world junior ranking of 23rd and sits 64th in the overall standings. His performances at major international tournaments have drawn attention to Nigeria’s fencing potential.
Brou recently won Bronze at the 2025 African Junior Fencing Championships in Luanda, Angola.
Additionally, American-based teenage fencer Peluola Akinbamiro has pledged her allegiance to Nigeria at the international level. The 13-year-old from Fort Bend Fencing Academy in Houston reached out to the Nigerian Fencing Federation, expressing her desire to represent the country on the world stage.
Nigeria has also built relationships with international fencing bodies such as the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and other African federations, granting access to training and competition opportunities abroad.
The 2028 Olympics: A Dream or a Real Possibility?
Qualifying for the Olympics in fencing is difficult. World rankings, continental slots, and team performances all play a role, and with African powerhouses like Egypt, South Africa, and Tunisia in the mix, Nigeria faces a tough test. But the signs of progress are there.
With more Nigerian fencers competing internationally, ranking points are steadily accumulating. The presence of young, world-class prospects like Brou and Akinbamiro means the talent pool is deeper than ever. At the same time, hosting international events has started to shift the perception of fencing in Nigeria, sparking conversations that didn’t exist a few years ago. The challenge, of course, is sustaining this momentum.
The Key to Long-Term Success
For long-term success beyond the 2028 Olympics, fencing in Nigeria must evolve beyond isolated achievements. Increased sponsorship, media attention, and government investment will be game-changers. More importantly, the sport needs to become more accessible to young Nigerians at the grassroots level.
Additionally, young athletes like Inkosi Brou, Oluwasemilore Fasola, and Peluola Akinbamiro represent the future of Nigerian fencing, and their continuous development in the right conditions will be vital.
Fencing in Nigeria has come a long way, but there’s still some way to go. With rising talents, international recognition, and strategic investment, the country could soon be a strong force in African and global fencing.
The dream of Olympic qualification in 2028 is tough but not impossible. If the momentum continues, Nigeria could soon stand proudly on the Olympic stage, marking a new era for fencing.
