Adeyinka Samuel Elected First African CFF President

Adeyinka Samuel has made history by being elected President of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF), making him the first African and Nigerian to lead the organization. He achieved this milestone by defeating the incumbent, Marie-France Dufour, with a vote count of 14 to 6 during the federation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Samuel's election signifies a breakthrough for African representation in international sports leadership, breaking a tradition of leadership predominantly held by countries like Scotland, Australia, and Canada. This event coincides with Nigeria hosting the senior and veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, which includes over 20 participating nations and recognizes U-23 and Wheelchair Fencing events as medal-yielding competitions for the first time.

Delegates commended Samuel's vision and leadership, noting his journey from a world-class athlete to the President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, under which Nigeria has successfully hosted various international fencing events.