Sanwo-Olu opens Commonwealth Fencing Championships, showcasing Lagos to the world

Sanwo-Olu opens Commonwealth Fencing Championships, showcasing Lagos to the world

Lagos came alive as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially declared the Commonwealth Fencing Championships open, describing sport as one of humanity’s greatest unifying forces. Welcoming athletes and officials from across the Commonwealth during the opening ceremony on Sunday, August 9, at Rugby School Nigeria, he expressed pride that Lagos was hosting the event, offering not only a competitive stage but also a chance for visitors to experience the city’s warmth and hospitality.

“Sports is still one major thing that brings everybody together,” Sanwo-Olu said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your background is; sport is a leveller and a unifier. It rallies the entire world together.”

The governor commended the organisers, particularly the leadership of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, for choosing Lagos as host.

He assured both athletes and officials of the state government’s full support, emphasizing Lagos’s commitment to excellence and its determination to use sport as a platform to place both the state and Nigeria firmly on the global map.

Beyond the competition, Sanwo-Olu encouraged visitors to explore Lagos — a city he described as rich in culture, entertainment, and hospitality.

He urged participants to leave not only with medals but also with lasting memories of Nigeria’s vibrancy.

The 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, now underway in Lagos, have drawn fencers from across the Commonwealth to compete in various age categories and disciplines.

For Nigeria, the highlight has already arrived: Oghenegaren Osievwa-Thompson’s historic gold medal, a breakthrough moment that has ignited hope and ambition among the next generation of Nigerian fencers.