Nigeria Fencing Federation President, Adeyinka Samuel, has been elected president of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF), becoming the first Nigerian and African to occupy the position.
Samuel defeated the incumbent, Marie-France Dufour, at the federation’s elective Annual General Meeting held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, on Saturday.
He secured 14 votes against Dufour’s six to emerge victorious.
Samuel’s election ends a long-standing tradition of leadership of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation by representatives from countries such as Scotland, Australia and Canada.
His election also comes as Nigeria hosts the 2026 Commonwealth Senior and Veteran Fencing Championships in Lagos, with more than 20 countries participating in the competition.
The championships have also introduced U-23 and wheelchair fencing events as medal-earning competitions for the first time, marking a significant step towards greater inclusion in the sport.
Delegates at the election commended Samuel’s leadership and vision, highlighting his transition from an elite athlete to president of the Nigeria Fencing Federation.
Under his leadership, Nigeria has hosted several major international fencing events, including International Fencing Federation (FIE)-sanctioned Junior World Cups and African Championships.
Nigeria has also become the first African country to host the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships, further strengthening the country’s position as an emerging hub for international fencing.
Samuel’s election is expected to provide a fresh platform for the growth and development of fencing across Commonwealth nations, while increasing Africa’s representation in the sport’s international administration.
