The Nigeria Fencing Federation on Tuesday unveiled the official logo and mascot for the 2026 Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships, billed for August 9 to 14 at Rugby School, Lagos, marking the beginning of preparations for the prestigious event.
- +Nigeria unveil 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships mascot
With the hosting rights secured ahead of Australia, Nigeria joins South Africa as the only African countries to host a Commonwealth fencing championship, following South Africa’s staging of the junior edition in 2022.
With the hosting rights secured ahead of Australia, Nigeria joins South Africa as the only African countries to host a Commonwealth fencing championship, following South Africa’s staging of the junior edition in 2022.
The mascots are eagle-themed male and female characters, Gidi and Laci, symbolising the federation’s vision of reaching greater heights in fencing and Nigerian sports in general.
Elite fencing teams from across the Commonwealth will converge on Lagos to compete for honours, bringing global attention to Nigeria’s growing presence in the sport. The quadrennial championship was last held in England at the University of East London SportsDock.
In recent years, the Nigeria Fencing Federation has strengthened its reputation on the international stage, successfully hosting the International Fencing Federation-sanctioned Junior Épée World Cup as well as the African Fencing Championships.
President of the federation, Adeyinka Samuel, said Nigeria’s successful bid reflected the country’s rising stature in international fencing.
“Today is a proud moment for Nigerian sport as we officially launch the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, a historic event that will bring the Commonwealth fencing family to Nigeria for the very first time,” Samuel said.
“This achievement reflects the remarkable growth of fencing in our country and the confidence the international sporting community has placed in Nigeria’s ability to host a world-class championship.
“This championship is about much more than medals. It is about creating opportunities, inspiring young people, promoting international friendship and showcasing the very best of Nigeria to the world.”
Samuel also thanked the Lagos State Government, the Nigeria Olympic Committee, the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, World Abilitysport, sponsors, partners and supporters for their roles in securing the hosting rights.
Vice President of the federation, Rachael Samuel, described the unveiling as the official start of Nigeria’s journey towards the 2026 championships.
“The awarding of the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships to Nigeria is recognition of the progress we have made as a federation and as a nation,” she said.
“It reflects the confidence the international fencing community has in our ability to host a world-class event and deliver an unforgettable experience for athletes and visitors from across the Commonwealth.”
She added that the tournament would go beyond competition by promoting development, cultural exchange and grassroots growth through initiatives involving schools, coaches and partnerships with organisations including Reach Africa, UNICEF, World Abilitysport, The Future of Fencing and the International Fencing Federation.
Representing the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, senior manager Emmanuel Nweri praised the federation’s progress over the last five years and pledged continued support in its quest for greater recognition from the National Sports Commission.
Technical Director of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Ifeoluwa Ogunlaja, who represented Director-General Lekan Fatodu, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the federation and strengthening Lagos’ status as Africa’s sports hub.
Director of Marketing and Admissions at Rugby School, Lagos, Dr Joy Isa, said hosting the tournament aligns with the school’s vision of developing well-rounded students through sport and assured that the institution is ready to welcome athletes and visitors for the championship.
