Nigeria Set to Host 2024 Junior Fencing World Cup
Top fencing nations, including the United States, Hong Kong, Egypt, and others, are gearing up to compete in the 2024 Men’s Junior Epee Fencing World Cup, slated for December 14-15 in Lagos. This landmark event marks Nigeria as the first Sub-Saharan African country to host a fencing World Cup.
The tournament will be held at Charterhouse Lagos, a prestigious international school, and will feature countries such as Ghana, Senegal, Greece, Angola, Togo, Benin Republic, and host Nigeria.
Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, highlighted the significance of this achievement, noting it reflects Nigeria’s growing global reputation in sports. “We are thrilled to host this prestigious event and grateful to Charterhouse Lagos for their support. Being the first Sub-Saharan nation to host the World Cup is a proud moment for us,” Samuel said during a press conference at the Lagos Fencing Club.
Samuel added that the successful hosting of African championships in 2018 and 2020 laid the foundation for Nigeria’s bid, which was unanimously approved. He emphasized the importance of the event in providing local fencers with exposure to top-level competition and opportunities to earn points for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic qualifiers.
John Todd, Director of Education at Charterhouse Lagos, expressed enthusiasm for the school’s role in hosting the event, emphasizing their commitment to fostering fencing in Nigeria. “We are excited to partner with the Nigeria Fencing Federation to promote fencing. Hosting events like the World Cup and potentially the Commonwealth Championships will inspire more young Nigerians to take up the sport,” Todd said.
For young Nigerian fencers, including Shemilore Fashola and Wisdom Okanlawon, the World Cup presents an invaluable opportunity to compete against elite talent. Nigeria is expected to field nine fencers in individual and team categories.
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