The Nigeria Fencing Federation has confirmed the donation of five aluminium fencing pistes to the body by Absolute Fencing, a US-based fencing equipment manufacturer, ahead of the 2024 Men’s Junior Epee World Cup, which will be hosted by the country in December.
Nigeria is recognised as the leading fencing nation in Sub-Saharan Africa and has been granted the hosting rights of the tournament.
The event is sanctioned by the Switzerland-based International Fencing Federation (FIE).
“Absolute Fencing, a leading fencing equipment manufacturer based in the USA, has donated five aluminium fencing pistes (each measuring 1.5 m x 17 m) valued at N40m,” Nigeria Fencing said in a statement on Tuesday.
President of Absolute Fencing, Gary Lu, stated that the donation was inspired by Nigeria’s progress in the sport.
“Absolute Fencing is pleased with the progress made by the Nigerian Fencing Federation and their dedication to advancing the sport in Nigeria. As part of our commitment to supporting the growth of fencing across Africa, we are proud to donate these fencing pistes to the Nigerian Fencing Federation for the upcoming 2024 Junior Men’s Epee World Cup in December.”
NFF president, Adeyinka Samuel, noted that the support would motivate them to ensure a successful tournament and called on corporate bodies and individuals to support the federation’s efforts to elevate Nigeria’s status in the global fencing community.
“Nigeria has successfully hosted several major international tournaments over the years, establishing itself as the frontrunner in Sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, Nigeria is the only sub-Saharan country with the right to host a fencing world cup,” Samuel said.
“This donation is a testament to the international recognition of our achievements in developing the sport, particularly as fencing pistes are the most expensive equipment in the sport. We now call on local organisations to support and partner with us as Nigeria continues to host these historic events,” he added.
Last weekend, Nigeria made a remarkable entry into the global fencing scene, thanks to the impressive performance of 16-year-old Inkosi Brou, who won the country’s first-ever medal in the sabre category at the World Tournoi Satellite Cup in Iceland.
The world No. 67-ranked fencer clinched a silver medal after a hard-fought 15-9 match against Iceland’s Andre Mateev.
