Nigerian elected Commonwealth Fencing Federation president

Adeyinka Samuel, president of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, has made history by becoming the first African and Nigerian to be elected president of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF).

Samuel secured a decisive victory over the incumbent, Marie-France Dufour, at the federation's elective Annual General Meeting held in Atlantic City. He garnered 14 votes, significantly outnumbering Dufour's six. This win breaks a long-standing tradition of leadership from countries like Scotland, Australia, and Canada.

The election coincides with Nigeria's hosting of the senior and veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos. The event includes over 20 participating nations and marks the first time U-23 and wheelchair fencing will be recognized as medal-yielding competitions, enhancing the sport's inclusivity.

Delegates lauded Samuel's leadership and vision, acknowledging his transition from a world-class athlete to the head of the Nigeria Fencing Federation. Under his guidance, Nigeria has successfully hosted international events, including Junior World Cups and African Championships, and now proudly stages the Senior Commonwealth Championships.