Leading fencing nations, including the United States, Hong Kong, and Egypt, alongside several others, are confirmed participants in the 2024 Men’s Junior Epee Fencing World Cup.
The tournament, scheduled for December 14-15, will be held in Lagos, Nigeria, marking a historic milestone as the first time a Sub-Saharan African country will host a Fencing World Cup.
The event will take place at Charterhouse Lagos, a prestigious international school renowned for its exceptional facilities. Participating countries include Ghana, Senegal, Greece, Angola, Togo, Benin Republic, and host nation Nigeria.
Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, expressed pride in Nigeria’s selection to host the championship. “We are thrilled about the opportunity to stage this significant event,” Samuel said during a press conference at the Lagos Fencing Club. “We’re immensely grateful to Charterhouse Lagos for partnering with us to host this historic tournament. This is a rare privilege for any African country, and it’s an honor for Nigeria to be the first in Sub-Saharan Africa to host a World Cup event.”
Samuel highlighted Nigeria’s past successes in hosting the African Championships in 2018 and 2020 as key milestones that bolstered the country’s bid for the World Cup.
“This event not only allows us to showcase top-class fencing competition but also provides our athletes the chance to earn valuable points for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and other international events,” he added.
John Todd, Director of Education at Charterhouse Lagos, underscored the school’s enthusiasm for supporting fencing’s growth in Nigeria. “Hosting an event of this caliber is a significant moment for Nigeria. At Charterhouse Lagos, fencing is a key part of our youth development program, and we’re delighted to collaborate with the Nigeria Fencing Federation.
“Our facilities are primed to support the tournament and future events, including the Commonwealth Championships. We hope this partnership inspires more young Nigerians to embrace the sport,” Todd said.
The tournament will serve as a platform for Nigeria’s teenage fencers, such as Semilore Bashola and Wisdom Okanlawon, to compete against world-class talent. The Nigeria Fencing Federation has confirmed that nine fencers will represent the country in individual and team events.
As preparations intensify, the tournament promises to be a landmark event, setting the stage for the future growth of fencing in Nigeria and the broader African continent.
