World No. 1, African Stars Set for Historic Championship in Nigeria

World No. 1, African Stars Set for Historic Championship in Nigeria 

By Niyi Busari 

 The world’s top-ranked fencer, Mohamed El-Sayed of Egypt, will headline a stellar lineup at the 23rd African Fencing Championships, taking place in Lagos from June 25 to 29, 2025.

Fresh off his silver-medal performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the 22-year-old El-Sayed is among over 200 athletes from 26 African countries confirmed for the elite continental event. He will be joined by his younger brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, the 2025 Junior World Champion, in what promises to be one of the most competitive editions in the championship’s history.

Speaking at a pre-tournament press briefing, Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF), expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness to host a world-class event. This will be only the third time the African Fencing Championships are held in sub-Saharan Africa, following previous editions in Senegal (2002, 2009) and Mali (2019).

 “We are committed to delivering a top-tier championship,” Samuel said. “Lagos offers a unique blend of world-class infrastructure, rich cultural heritage, and passionate sporting spirit. This is more than a tournament — it’s an opportunity to showcase the best of Nigeria and Africa.”

A Global Stage in Lagos

The event will be hosted at the prestigious Charterhouse Lagos, West Africa’s first British independent school, located in the vibrant heart of the city. The venue also hosted Nigeria’s first-ever Fencing World Cup, earning praise for its modern facilities and organizational excellence.

Angela Hencher, Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse Lagos, emphasized the school’s continued support for fencing and sport development:

 “The African Fencing Championships align with our mission to nurture excellence and inspire ambition. We’re proud to host athletes from across the continent and to partner with the federation to grow the sport in Nigeria and beyond.”

Elite Competition and Global Spotlight

Other top athletes scheduled to compete include:

Fares Ferjani (Tunisia), 2024 Olympic silver medalist

Ndolo Alexandra (Kenya), former World Champion

Inkosi Brou (Nigeria), currently ranked 23rd globally.

In a significant milestone for African fencing, senior officials from the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the entire Executive Committee of the African Fencing Confederation will attend the tournament—their first official visit to Africa for a continental championship.

 “This event marks a turning point for the sport on the continent,” Samuel added. “The presence of global and continental leaders is a testament to Africa’s growing influence in international fencing.”

With high-level competition, cultural showcases, and international attention, Lagos is poised to deliver a landmark championship that reflects both athletic excellence and Africa’s unity in sport.