By VIVIAN AHANMISI

Nigeria has recorded a historic achievement in international sports administration with the election of Adeyinka Samuel as President of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF).

This is contained in a statement issued by the federation on Sunday in Lagos.

Samuel defeated the incumbent, Marie-France Dufour, at the federation’s elective Annual General Meeting, held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, Lagos, on Saturday.

He secured 14 votes against Dufour’s six.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Samuel has become the first Nigerian and African to lead the CFF, breaking the long-standing tradition of leadership from countries such as Scotland, Australia and Canada.

“This is a great honour and a responsibility that I do not take lightly,” the statement quoted Samuel as saying.

“I am grateful to the Commonwealth fencing family for the confidence placed in me,” Samuel added.

He said his election would provide an opportunity to further develop fencing across the Commonwealth and create greater opportunities for athletes.

“I believe we can work together to grow the sport, support our athletes and make fencing more accessible and inclusive across the Commonwealth,” he said.

Samuel said the election also highlighted the growing influence of Africa in international fencing and marked a new era for the sport across the Commonwealth.

According to him, the election came as Nigeria hosts the Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, with more than 20 countries participating.

He said, for the first time, the Under-23 and Wheelchair Fencing events would be recognised as medal-yielding competitions, further promoting inclusivity in the sport.

Delegates praised Samuel’s leadership and vision, as well as his journey from a world-class athlete to President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation.

Under his leadership, Nigeria has successfully hosted International Fencing Federation-sanctioned Junior World Cups and African Championships.

Nigeria has also become the first African country to host the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships.

Samuel said his election was not only a personal achievement but also a major step forward for African representation in international sports leadership. (NAN)