The Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF) on Tuesday unveiled the official logo and mascot for the 2026 Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos.
The event was held at Rugby School, Lagos.
NFF President, Adeyinka Samuel, said the unveiling marked the start of preparations for the historic championship.
The competition will be the first Commonwealth Fencing Championships to be hosted on African soil.
Samuel described the occasion as a proud moment for Nigerian sports and fencing development.
He said Nigeria defeated Australia to secure the hosting rights, reflecting global confidence in the country.
“Today is a proud moment for Nigerian sport as we officially launch the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships.
“It is a historic event that will bring the Commonwealth fencing family to Nigeria for the first time,” Samuel said.
He added that the achievement showed the growth of fencing and international trust in Nigeria.
“This championship is about more than medals. It is about creating opportunities and inspiring young people.
“It will promote friendship and showcase the very best of Nigeria to the world,” he said.
Samuel noted that Nigeria had hosted major events, including the FIE-sanctioned World Cup and African Championships.
He said Nigeria joined South Africa as the only African countries to host the Commonwealth Fencing Championships. South Africa hosted the junior edition of the championship in 2022.
Samuel appreciated the Lagos State Government, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) and other partners.
He said the event would leave a lasting legacy through athlete, coach and official development.
The championship, held every four years, will take place in Lagos from Aug. 9 to Aug. 14.
The previous edition was hosted in England at the University of East London SportsDock.
Vice President of the federation, Rachael Samuel, said the hosting rights recognised Nigeria’s progress.
“The award reflects confidence in our ability to host a world-class event,” she said, adding that the championship would promote sports development and cultural exchange.
Rachael said the federation would expand grassroots programmes and coach development initiatives.
She listed partnerships with Reach Africa, UNICEF, World Abilitysport and other organisations.
She said the event would showcase Nigeria’s hospitality, culture and organisational capacity globally.
Emmanuel Nweri of the Nigeria Olympic Committee praised the federation’s achievements.
He pledged continued support for fencing development programmes across the country.
Nweri expressed confidence that the federation would gain recognition from the National Sports Commission.
Representing the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu reaffirmed the state’s support.
Its Technical Director, Ifeoluwa Ogunlaja, said Lagos remained committed to major competitions.
Ogunlaja said the state aimed to strengthen its position as Africa’s sports hub.
Dr Joy Isa of Rugby School Lagos said hosting the event aligned with its vision, assuring athletes and officials of a welcoming environment during the championship.
The mascot symbolises the competition and promote the event, which is expected to attract athletes, coaches and officials from across the Commonwealth countries