Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, emphasizing its importance for youth engagement and national development.
The Governor made this known through the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, on Friday while receiving the Secretary-General of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), Mrs. Gulnora Saidova, on a courtesy visit at the Deputy Governor’s official residence in Ikoyi.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the vital role of sports in promoting human health and contributing to the holistic development of both young people and the nation. He stressed that sports are activities to be embraced by people of all ages.
He further stated that the state government is committed to supporting the introduction and growth of fencing as a sport in schools across the state.
“So I think if we do that, we make sure that the trajectory is going well. But we are here to support it. We believe that sport is something all our young people should be engaged in. As it used to be when we were in secondary school, you could not do without engaging in a sporting activity,” he said.
In addition, he noted that Africa, particularly Nigeria, is making significant strides in the development of fencing, reflecting the continent’s growing interest and potential in the sport. He added that fencing, often regarded as a game for the elite, deserves the recognition and participation by all and support as other sports.
Earlier in her remarks, the Secretary-General of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), Mrs. Gulnora Saidova, requested the support of the state government to formally promote fencing as a priority sport in Nigeria, particularly Lagos, emphasizing that it would contribute to the overall development of the state and its youth.
According to Saidova, “I see the great potential you have here and the talented athletes. Fencing is an Olympic sport, and it could be a tremendous opportunity for Nigeria to grow its presence in future Olympics. I kindly ask you to consider granting formal recognition of fencing as a priority sport in Lagos State.”
Speaking further, she appealed for the government’s support in hosting an international fencing competition in Nigeria, adding that the federation plans to involve Nigeria as a leader in the development of fencing in Africa, which would offer significant potential for the nation’s economy and boost sustainability.
Providing insight into the sport of fencing, the President, Nigeria Fencing Federation, Mr. Adeyinka Samuel, described fencing as a combat sport centered on sword fighting, emphasizing that it develops participants both mentally and physically.
Mr. Samuel noted that through fencing, many athletes have had opportunities to travel around the world to compete, winning gold, silver, and bronze medals for their countries and teams.
He also stated that an ongoing competition in Nigeria, the African Fencing Championship is currently attracting participants from across the globe.
