The current world number one fencer, Mohamed El-Sayed of Egypt, is one of the athletes expected in Lagos for the African Fencing Championship billed to hold from June 25 to 29, 2025.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games silver medallist is the headline star of the championships, which will hold at Charterhouse Lagos, the first British independent school in West Africa.
With over 400 years of British academic heritage, Charterhouse previously hosted Nigeria’s first Fencing World Cup and is considered an ideal venue for the championships, which are sanctioned by the FIE.
El-Sayed will be joined by his younger brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, the 2025 junior world champion and the world’s current junior number one, as part of a formidable Egyptian team.
According to the president of the Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF), Adeyinka Samuel, announced that 26 countries and over 200 athletes will converge in Lagos for the prestigious continental event.
“Twenty-six African countries have confirmed their participation, bringing with them more than 200 athletes. I assure you of a world-class experience,” Samuel said.
“Teams can expect exceptional hospitality, professional organization, and a vibrant, secure environment. Lagos offers a unique blend of modern infrastructure, cultural richness, and passionate sportsmanship. Beyond the thrilling competition, we aim to deliver a memorable Nigerian experience, complete with captivating cultural showcases that reflect our diversity and a profound pan-African spirit of unity.”
Highlighting the calibre of talent expected, Samuel added: “We are honoured to welcome Mohamed El-Sayed, the current Senior World No. 1 and 2024 Olympic silver medalist, alongside his brother, Mahmoud.
Also competing are Fares Ferjani, the 2024 Olympic bronze medalist, and Kenya’s Ndolo Alexandra, a former world champion. And of course, we’ll be cheering on our very own Inkosi Brou, currently ranked 23rd in the world, among many other exceptional fencers.”
Underscoring the tournament’s significance, Samuel revealed that top Executive Committee members from the International Fencing Federation (FIE) will be attending, marking their first official visit to Africa. All executive members of the African Fencing Confederation will also be present, further emphasizing the event’s importance for the sport’s development across the continent.
Angela Hencher, Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse Lagos, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to supporting the sport: “The Senior African Fencing Championships will welcome athletes from across the continent, aligning with our vision to nurture proactive global citizens. Beyond the competition, this event celebrates the power of sport and fosters a culture of excellence and ambition.”
