By Vivian Ahanmisi

In a landmark move to promote youth empowerment, the Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF), backed by FIE, is exploring partnership with UNICEF Nigeria.

The initiative seeks to use fencing as a powerful tool for child development, education, peacebuilding, and sustainable growth in Nigeria and beyond.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a high-level meeting occurred at UNICEF’s Lagos Office during the 23rd African Fencing Championships.

In attendance were FIE Secretary-General Gulnora Saidova, African Fencing Confederation President Mbagnick Ndiaye, and NFF President Adeyinka Samuel.

They met with senior UNICEF Nigeria officials to discuss a potential collaboration framework for the project.

UNICEF Nigeria was represented by Ronak Khan, Deputy Representative (Programmes), and experts in youth engagement, skill development, and partnerships.

Also present were Novak Perovic, FIE Vice President, Obinna Anyanwu, Vice Chair of the Organising Committee, and Rachael Samuel, NFF Vice President.

During the session, the NFF President reiterated the federation’s vision of fencing as a catalyst for youth development and positive social change.

NAN also reports that the meeting underscored the partnership’s potential to transform lives across communities in Nigeria and Africa at large.

FIE Secretary-General Gulnora Saidova stated, “At FIE, we aim to grow fencing as both a sport and a tool for cultural and social advancement.

“We’re excited by the opportunities discussed with UNICEF Nigeria and believe this collaboration can uplift communities across Africa,” she said.

Samuel noted, “This partnership is a bold step towards using fencing to uplift and empower young Nigerians through education, inclusion, and sport.”

UNICEF Nigeria expressed strong interest in the initiative, citing its alignment with their focus on children’s rights and youth development.

The body also highlighted areas like child protection, peacebuilding, and skills development as key goals the partnership could support.

UNICEF confirmed it has the infrastructure and capacity to roll out the programme nationwide using its existing platforms.

If successful, this would be UNICEF Nigeria’s first development initiative anchored in sport-based programming.

The collaboration is set to become a landmark model for youth and fencing development, with a shared goal of long-term, scalable impact. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo