Sanwo-Olu opens African Fencing Championship
By Vivian Ahanmisi
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos has declared open the 23rd Senior African Fencing Championship, taking place in Lagos.
The opening ceremony, which began on Wednesday, brought together over 200 athletes from 26 African countries, including Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Benin Republic, Ivory Coast, and Senegal.
The governor was represented by the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu.
In his goodwill message, Sanwo-Olu welcomed delegates and urged stakeholders to harness fencing’s potential for youth empowerment, social progress, and economic transformation in Africa.
He described Lagos as the “vibrant aquatic heartbeat of Africa”, and said the event represented more than just competition.
According to him, the championship provides a platform to reposition fencing as a tool for youth inclusion and community development.
“This championship opens the door to key conversations on fencing’s role in promoting broader social good,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
He noted that both Nigerian and International Fencing Federations were engaging with UNICEF on fencing’s role in youth empowerment, child protection, and poverty reduction.
The governor said fencing, once seen as a European elite sport, could now gain “African purpose” if integrated into public schools nationwide.
Sanwo-Olu also announced that Nigeria would host the 2026 Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championship.
He added it would be the first time the Commonwealth fencing event would take place on African soil.
Sanwo-Olu described the hosting as a milestone, with the potential to boost the local economy by $5 million to $6 million.
He commended both Nigerian and international fencing bodies for securing the 2026 rights and expressed hope for positive youth outcomes.
“I congratulate everyone involved in organising this wonderful competition,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The week-long event continues in Lagos on Thursday and featuring individual and team contests across various fencing categories. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
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