By our reporter
Nigeria’s fencing prodigy, Inkosi Brou, warmed up for this week’s African Junior Fencing Championships in Dakar with an impressive run to sixth place in the International Fencing Federation (FIE) World Cup, which concluded over the weekend in the Senegalese capital.
Brou, already a trailblazer as the first Nigerian to win an international fencing medal, entered the men’s Sabre event as one of the top seeds.
The 18-year-old received a bye into the round of 16, where he dispatched Egypt’s Hamza Abuhalwa with a commanding 15–10 victory.
In the quarterfinal, Brou faced Mexico’s Nathan Munguia, a seasoned competitor.
Despite matching his opponent’s tactics, Brou was edged out 15–10, finishing sixth overall.
His performance earned him 14 valuable ranking points, bolstering his world standing ahead of the continental championships.
This week, Brou will lead Nigeria’s contingent alongside Mahathir Idongesit (Men’s Épée), Sara Idongesit (Women’s Épée), and Adebodunrin Thomas (Women’s Épée).
Brou, who claimed Nigeria’s sole medal at the 2025 African Junior Championships, enters Dakar as the top seed in Men’s Sabre, ranked highest among the 25 competitors in the category.
He is expected to face stiff competition from Egypt’s rising stars, who also rank among the top seeds.
National coach Ibrahim Alogba, who traveled with the team from Lagos, expressed confidence in Brou’s ability to deliver.
“One good thing about Brou is that he is one of the most respected fencers in Africa. His composure and calmness when competing set him apart. I am hopeful we can return with medals from Dakar, and I believe this experience will prepare our fencers well for the Commonwealth Championships later this year,” Alogba said.
Brou’s rise reflects Nigeria’s growing ambition to establish fencing as a credible Olympic sport within the country. With his sights firmly set on Los Angeles 2028, Brou’s performances on the global stage are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s first Olympic fencing representation.
The Nigeria Fencing Federation has emphasized the importance of international exposure and grassroots development, ensuring that young athletes like Brou and the Idongesit siblings gain the experience needed to compete at the highest level.
As Nigeria’s junior fencers sharpen their skills in Dakar, the nation’s long-term vision is clear: to transform fencing from a niche pursuit into a sport capable of delivering Olympic medals, showcasing Nigeria’s talent and resilience on the world stage.
Extrasportnigeria 
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