Esiovwa-Thompson Wins Nigeria's First Gold in Fencing

On August 9, 2023, Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson made history by winning Nigeria’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s U-23 epee at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships held at Rugby School Nigeria in Atlantic City, Lagos. Competing for Nigeria for the first time after switching allegiance from England, the 16-year-old fencer defeated three Indian opponents en route to the gold medal.

In the final, Esiovwa-Thompson showcased exceptional skill, defeating Asian champion Lokesh Vemani 15–5. His journey included victories over South Africa’s Karabo Mathobela (15–7) in the round of 16, India’s Shivaansh Kapoor (15–2) in the quarterfinals, and Ashwini Shaurya (15–11) in the semifinals.

This achievement marks Esiovwa-Thompson not only as the first Nigerian to win a medal at the tournament but also as the first to capture gold at any international fencing event. Prior to this, he had won gold in the U-13 boys’ epee at the 2022 Wratislavia Challenge while representing England.