Adeyinka Samuel wins historic silver for Nigeria in fencing

Adeyinka Samuel has secured a silver medal for Nigeria at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships. Competing in the men’s sabre veteran category, the Nigeria Fencing Federation President became the first Nigerian sabre fencer to earn a medal at the event.

Samuel, who is also the newly elected head of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFC), returned to competitive fencing after a 13-year hiatus. During the tournament, he defeated three of his four opponents. His only loss in the competition was to Oliver Massey of Wales, who went on to win the championship.

Among the competitors Samuel overcame was fellow Nigerian Tonye Sawari. The silver medal marks the first such achievement in Samuel's individual fencing career. He previously participated in the 2006 and 2010 Commonwealth Championships in Australia but did not secure a podium finish during those appearances.

Samuel expressed his happiness regarding the achievement, noting that winning a medal as a veteran is a significant milestone. He highlighted the success of the Nigerian team, including the performances of young fencers and wheelchair athletes, as evidence that the country should embrace fencing as an Olympic discipline.

In his capacity as CFC President, Samuel stated that his primary objective is to work toward the reinstatement of fencing at the Commonwealth Games. He also intends to focus on increasing the profile of the sport in Nigeria through cooperation between the CFC and the International Fencing Federation (FIE).