Adeyinka Samuel becomes the first-ever African president of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation

NIGERIA'S Adeyinka Samuel has been elected as the president of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF) in a development expected to enhance the development of the sport across the country.

At the federation’s elective annual general meeting, held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, Lagos, yesterday, Mr Samuel defeated the incumbent, Marie-France Dufou by 14 votes to six. With this victory, becomes the first Nigerian and African to lead the CFF, breaking the long-standing tradition of leadership from countries such as Scotland, Australia and Canada.

Mr Samuel said: “This is a great honour and a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I am grateful to the Commonwealth fencing family for the confidence placed in me and I believe we can work together to grow the sport, support our athletes and make fencing more accessible and inclusive across the Commonwealth.”

He added that his election would provide an opportunity to further develop fencing across the Commonwealth and create greater opportunities for athletes. According to Mr Samuel, the election also highlighted the growing influence of Africa in international fencing and marked a new era for the sport across the Commonwealth.

Furthermore, he pointed out that his election came as Nigeria hosts the Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, with more than 20 countries participating. Mr Samuel added that for the first time, the Under-23 and Wheelchair Fencing events would be recognised as medal-yielding competitions, further promoting inclusivity in the sport.

Delegates praised Mr Samuel’s leadership and vision, as well as his journey from a world-class athlete to president of the Nigeria Fencing Federation. Under his leadership, Nigeria has successfully hosted International Fencing Federation-sanctioned Junior World Cups and African Championships.

Nigeria has also become the first African country to host the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships. Mr Samuel said his election was not only a personal achievement but also a major step forward for African representation in international sports leadership.