Esiovwa-Johnson explains switch from England to Nigeria
Nigeria’s fencing history reached a milestone on August 9, 2026, when 17-year-old Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson won the country’s first gold medal at an international fencing tournament.
Competing at the Commonwealth Championships in the men’s U-23 epee, he remained unbeaten, defeating three top Indian opponents to emerge champion.
Esiovwa-Thompson, who made his international debut for Nigeria at the tournament, said his decision to switch allegiance from England was driven by ambition. “There’s something in me that has always longed to fence for Nigeria,” he explained. “Even though I grew up in England and won several medals there, I knew representing Nigeria would be
the right path to fulfill my Olympic dream.”
Cheered on by his grandparents at Rugby School Nigeria, venue of the historic feat, the teenager reflected on the effort behind his success. “A lot of training, dedication, sweat, and tears went into this. I’m just happy I won in front of Nigerians, in front of my family,” he said.
Having competed internationally for England, Esiovwa-Thompson said he never doubted his ability on the big stage. “I’ve been fencing longer than I haven’t been fencing,” he remarked. “I knew how to stay calm, stay relaxed, and take every match one at a time.”
The significance of his achievement only struck him after the final. “I didn’t realize I was the first Nigerian to win gold at the Commonwealth Championships until just before the final,” he admitted. “Doing this in front of my grandparents, in front of the fans—it’s overwhelming. Everything is just coming to me now, and I’m proud to represent
my country.”
Initially unnoticed at the tournament, his flawless group-stage performance quickly made him the center of attention. He credited the crowd’s energy for lifting his game. “It was the first time I experienced that kind of support. The cheers from the fans hit me every time I stepped onto the stage. Their support was key to my victory.”
Even as Nigeria’s lone representative, he said he felt no pressure. “Because I’ve been fencing all my life, I knew what to do. I stayed calm, stayed relaxed, and took every match one at a time.”
For Nigeria, his triumph is a historic breakthrough. For Esiovwa-Thompson, it marks the beginning of a journey he hopes will lead to the Olympic Games, carrying the green and white flag with pride.
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