23rd African Fencing Championships: Egypt Claims First Medal As Nigerian Athletes Shine

23rd African Fencing Championships: Egypt Claims First Medal As Nigerian Athletes Shine

Ibrahim Lateef

The 23rd African Fencing Championships began with great fanfare on Wednesday, June 25, at Charterhouse Lagos, as top teams across the continent demonstrated their prowess. Egypt secured the first gold medal of the tournament, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s leading fencing nations, reports BSNSports.com.ng.

Team Nigeria showcased a commendable performance, with rising talents Wisdom Okanlawon and the Idongesit siblings—Mahadi and Mahathir—progressing to the knockout stages of the Men's Individual Épée event.

Despite facing more seasoned opponents in the preliminary rounds, the trio exhibited impressive skill and resilience.

Veteran fencer Adegbola Babade, the oldest member of Team Nigeria, also reached the round of 32. However, all Nigerian competitors were ultimately eliminated in the knockout rounds by more experienced adversaries.

Mahathir Idongesit, who was narrowly defeated by World Junior Champion Mahmoud El-Sayed in the round of 32, remained optimistic.

“I’m thrilled to have fenced against one of the best in the world. It was a close contest, and I enjoyed every moment. This experience has boosted my confidence and will stay with me for a long time,” he said.

In a goodwill message, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Lekan Fatodu, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, commended the Nigerian Fencing Federation and the International Fencing Federation (FIE) for selecting Nigeria as the host of this prestigious event.

“This remarkable competition, which features nations such as Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, Benin Republic, Ivory Coast, and Senegal, brings together over 26 countries and more than 200 athletes in a spectacular display of skill and sportsmanship,” he stated.

“I welcome you all to Nigeria, the most populous Black nation in the world, and to Lagos, a city renowned for its vibrant beauty and dynamic spirit.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also emphasized the broader impact of the sport, saying, “This championship opens the door to vital discussions about how fencing can serve as a powerful tool for social good. The Nigerian Fencing Federation and FIE are exploring a strategic partnership with UNICEF to use fencing for youth empowerment, child protection, poverty alleviation, and to create economic opportunities for our athletes.”