Samuel Adeyinka makes history as first African elected President of Commonwealth Fencing Federation
Nigeria has recorded a landmark achievement in international sports governance with the election of Adeyinka Samuel as President of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF).
Samuel emerged victorious at the federation’s elective Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, on Saturday, August 8, 2026. He secured 14 votes to defeat incumbent President Marie-France Dufour, who received six votes.
The historic election makes Samuel the first Nigerian and first African to lead the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, ending a longstanding tradition in which leadership of the body had been held by representatives from countries including Scotland, Australia and Canada.
His victory signals the growing influence of Africa in international fencing and opens a new chapter for the development of the sport across Commonwealth nations.
Samuel’s election comes as Nigeria hosts the Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, with more than 20 countries taking part. The championships are also breaking new ground, with Under-23 and Wheelchair Fencing competitions receiving medal status for the first time, strengthening the federation’s commitment to youth development and inclusivity.
Delegates at the AGM commended Samuel’s leadership record and vision for fencing. His rise to the CFF presidency follows an accomplished career as a world-class athlete and his tenure as President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation.
Under his leadership, Nigeria has hosted several major international competitions, including International Fencing Federation (FIE)-sanctioned Junior World Cups and African Championships. The country has now also become the first African nation to host the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships.
Samuel’s election therefore represents more than an individual achievement. It is a significant milestone for Nigeria and a major step forward for African representation and leadership in international sports administration.
With Samuel at the helm of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, expectations are high that his tenure will help strengthen fencing development, expand opportunities for athletes across the Commonwealth and further elevate Africa’s voice in global sports governance.
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