The Nigeria Fencing Federation has announced a seven-member squad for next month’s World Junior Fencing Championships in Wuxi, China from April 7 to 15.
Leading the team is Nigeria’s highest ranked fencer, Inkosi Brou, who has been highly active this year, participating in numerous tournaments in his quest to become the first Nigerian to compete in the Olympic fencing event.
Brou ranked 22nd in the junior category by the International Fencing Federation, brings a wealth of experience and is expected to guide the team in China. He will be joined by home-based fencer Wisdom Okanlawon, who will participate in the training camp preceding the tournament.
Okanlawon, a rising star among Africa’s top fencers, will benefit from the training camp, which features some of the world’s finest coaches. This experience will be invaluable for the young athlete.
Peluola Akinbamiro, who made her debut for Nigeria at the recent African Junior Championships in Angola, will also compete in China, aiming to make a significant impact and establish herself in the sport. Like Brou, Akinbamiro is based in the US and is eyeing a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
The Idongesit siblings—Mahadi, Mahathir, and Sara—are set to make their eagerly-awaited debut for Nigeria in China.
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Additionally, Somto Eribenne will make her first appearance in 2025, hoping to improve her world ranking through this tournament.
According to Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, the selection of these young athletes highlights Nigeria’s talent in the sport.
He emphasized that exposure to high level tournaments will boost their confidence for future events.
“We are excited about the athletes’ enthusiasm for the world championship. Our efforts are yielding results, and we believe we are on the right track to have our athletes represent Nigeria at the Olympic Games.
“This mix of homegrown and foreign-based talent will gain valuable experience for major events. We are still seeking support for the sport, especially as Nigeria is becoming a force in fencing in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“We aim to sustain this momentum with the Senior African Championships in June and the Commonwealth Championships in 2026,” he said.