CFC Boss Wins Historic Silver for Nigeria at 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships

Adeyinka Samuel has achieved a historic silver medal for Nigeria at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships, marking a significant milestone in Nigerian sports history. Already recognized as the first African and Nigerian to head the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFC), Samuel has now become the first Nigerian sabre fencer to secure a medal at this prestigious event.

Returning to the piste after a 13-year hiatus, Samuel competed in the men's sabre veteran category. He faced strong competition from Wales, Australia, and fellow Nigerian Tonye Sawari, demonstrating grit and precision. Samuel emerged victorious against three of his four opponents, with his sole defeat coming against the eventual champion, Oliver Massey of Wales. This performance earned him the silver medal, a career first and a landmark achievement for Nigeria.

Reflecting on his success, Samuel expressed immense joy, recalling his near misses at previous championships in 2006 and 2010. "This shows that with determination nothing is impossible," he stated, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. He proudly noted Nigeria's overall medal haul and highlighted the performance of young fencers and wheelchair athletes as proof that fencing deserves recognition as an Olympic discipline in Nigeria.

Beyond his personal triumph, Samuel lauded the championship's organization as the best ever. As CFC President, his immediate priorities include advocating for fencing's reinstatement in the Commonwealth Games and fostering collaboration between the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the CFC. These efforts aim to deepen the sport's reach across the region and elevate its status within Nigeria.

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I am so happy. I featured in two Commonwealth Championships 2006 and 2010 in Australia and narrowly missed out on medals, but to finally win one as a veteran is a joy I will cherish for a long time. This shows that with determination nothing is impossible. I am proud that Nigeria picked up several medals this time, and the performance of our young fencers, alongside our wheelchair athletes, proves that fencing is a serious sport Nigeria must embrace as an Olympic discipline.