​In a landmark victory for African sports governance, Nigeria Fencing Federation President Adeyinka Samuel was elected President of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF) on Saturday, August 8, 2026, defeating incumbent Marie-France Dufour.
​The elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) took place at Rugby School Nigeria in Atlantic City, Victoria Island, Lagos, where Samuel secured 14 votes to Dufour’s 6 votes. The result makes Samuel the first Nigerian and first African to helm the CFF, breaking a decades-long leadership tradition historically dominated by representatives from Scotland, Australia, and Canada.
​In a official statement issued following the election, newly elected CFF President Adeyinka Samuel expressed his gratitude to the global fencing community:
​”This is a great honour and a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I am grateful to the Commonwealth fencing family for the confidence placed in me. I believe we can work together to grow the sport, support our athletes, and make fencing more accessible and inclusive across the Commonwealth.”
​Outgoing CFF President Marie-France Dufour commended the spirit of the event and host preparations: “Working hand in hand with the Nigerian Fencing Federation, we have set out to give every athlete both a memorable stay and a world-class venue. Some must prevail, but all are invited to share in the spirit of the Commonwealth.”
​Highlighting the logistical success of hosting the AGM and the accompanying championships in Lagos, Local Organising Committee (LOC) member Olaitan Ogunbiyi noted: “The committee’s dedication has ensured a world-class environment for both the elective AGM and the championships, setting a new benchmark for hosting major international fencing events on African soil.”
​Samuel’s election coincides with Lagos hosting the 2026 Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships (August 9–14)—the first time the senior tournament has been held on African soil. Under Samuel’s vision, this year’s championships also mark the inaugural inclusion of U-23 individual events and full medal status for Wheelchair Fencing.
