Ibrahim Alogba, National Fencing Coach, has expressed confidence that Nigeria will make a strong impression at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos as preparations continue for the competition.
Alogba told the News Agency said on Sunday in Lagos that the country’s fencing team had continued to improve and was determined to compete well against more experienced nations.
He said Nigeria might still be developing in fencing when compared with countries that had spent many years in the sport, but the progress made by Nigerian athletes in recent years had been encouraging.
According to him, the focus remains on building a disciplined and competitive team that can proudly represent the country and challenge strongly on the international stage.
“We are preparing seriously and our athletes understand the importance of this championship because it will be hosted here in Lagos.
“Our goal is to put together a team that is focused, disciplined and ready to compete at a high level.
“We know there are countries with more experience than us, but we are improving steadily and the athletes are becoming more confident with every competition,” he said.
Alogba said one of the biggest factors behind the improvement in the team had been international exposure.
He said that Nigerian fencers who had competed outside the country were beginning to understand better what top-level fencing required.
He said international tournaments had helped the athletes improve their concentration, tactical decisions and ability to remain calm under pressure.
“Competing abroad has helped our fencers a lot because they now understand the speed, discipline and consistency needed at the highest level.
“It has also helped them believe more in themselves because they have seen that the gap is not impossible to close.
“With the right preparation and the right mindset on competition day, we can compete strongly and challenge top teams,” he said.
The coach said while medals could not be guaranteed in sports, the team remained hopeful and fully committed to delivering strong performances.
He added that the immediate target was to reach the advanced stages of the championship and gain valuable results from there.