Commonwealth Fencing Federation President,Marie-France Dufour,

Nigeria has secured the hosting rights for the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Senior Championships, a significant event sanctioned by Commonwealth Sport that takes place every four years. This marks the first time the senior championships will be held in Africa. Marie-France Dufour, President of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF), shared insights into the selection process, emphasizing the strong partnership between the CFF and Commonwealth Sport. Nigeria's bid was chosen through a robust selection process, reflecting the Commonwealth's spirit. Dufour expressed confidence in Nigeria's capacity to deliver a successful event, drawing on the positive experience of South Africa hosting the Junior Championships in 2015. The CFF Board selected Nigeria after conducting due diligence and determining its proposal best met the organization's standards. Dufour noted the encouraging growth of fencing in African Commonwealth nations, evidenced by increased participation and the development of infrastructure, which enriches the CFF with greater diversity. To ensure adequate preparation, the CFF's Technical Committee has been in close contact with Nigerian organizers, holding numerous virtual meetings and conducting a technical site visit. Expertise is being shared, particularly for the wheelchair event, and international referees have been secured. Continuous liaison with World Para Fencing and Commonwealth Sport is ongoing to guarantee readiness for the championships, which Dufour anticipates with delight due to strong participation despite global challenges.

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While this is the first Senior Championship to be held in Africa, the CFF previously staged a prestige event on the continent when South Africa hosted the Junior Championships in 2015. That successful experience gave us confidence that similar success could be achieved in Nigeria, provided the host met all requirements.