The Nigeria Fencing Federation has unveiled a 12-member para squad for the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place from August 9 to 14 at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, Victoria Island.
The team, evenly split between six men and six women, will represent Nigeria in the para events of the Championships. This marks the first time the prestigious competition will be staged in Nigeria, and notably, the first senior fencing tournament to be hosted in Africa.
The men’s squad features Oduneye Opeoluwa, Adibe Bright, Owolabi Daniel, Ajani Idowu, Adeniji Michael, and Owoyele Damilola. The women’s team includes Obilor Chidinma, Rahamon Abiola, Iorguna Joy, Ezeamwafor Esther, Otun Joyce, and Kumuyi Itunu — all set to make their debut at the tournament.
Meanwhile, in the build-up to the Championships, the World Abilitysport, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Fencing Federation and the Nigeria Fencing Federation, will host the 2026 Wheelchair Fencing Academy (ENABLE Academy) in Lagos from August 5 to 7.
The Academy will run as a three-day training camp covering all aspects of wheelchair fencing. Participants will refine their training and coaching techniques, gain insights into rules and classification, and strengthen peer connections. Aspiring referees will also benefit from a dedicated education seminar. Sessions will be led by World Para Fencing’s Coaching Representative, Ivan Schwantes.
Following the Academy, participants from across Commonwealth nations will compete in individual and team events in foil and epee during the Championships.
Harry Cootes, Acting Chief Executive Officer of World Abilitysport, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in fencing:
“A driving force behind our work is to ensure that fencing is open to as many people with disabilities as possible. The Wheelchair Fencing Academy – now entering its fifth year – has provided a platform for many athletes and coaches in new countries, and we hope to achieve the same impact with this edition, being held in the African region for the first time.”
He added that the Academy offers emerging nations a chance to build international connections, gain valuable knowledge, and compete on the global stage:
“Ultimately, what we are aiming for is more athletes and countries to compete at the highest levels, and the Academy and targeted competitions are where that starts. Our thanks go to the Commonwealth Fencing Federation for a great collaboration and the Nigeria Fencing Federation for hosting, as well as our educators for generously sharing their skills and experience to help build Para fencing around the world.”
