Osievwa-Thompson’s gold will inspire new era for fencing in Nigeria – Coach

National Fencing Coach, Ibrahim Alogba, on Tuesday, said Oghenegaren Osievwa-Thompson’s gold medal at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships would inspire a new era for the sport in Nigeria.

Alogba disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on the sidelines of the ongoing championships at the Rugby School, Eko Atlantic City, in Lagos.

According to him, the 17-year-old’s achievement is more than a personal victory, noting that it has given other Nigerian fencers the belief that they can also succeed at the highest level.

He said Osievwa-Thompson won Nigeria’s first gold medal at the international fencing tournament, at the ongoing Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos.

The coach said the achievement had already started having positive effects on other athletes.

“It is a huge blessing to the sport of fencing in Nigeria.

“Our athletes now have someone to look up to. Seeing her succeed makes them believe they can do it too,” Alogba said.

According to him, many Nigerian fencers have become more committed to the sport since Osievwa-Thompson’s success.

“Most of our athletes are saying, ‘Now I am committed, now I am ready’.

“That kind of motivation is priceless. At this point, I believe everything is possible,” he said.

Alogba added that Osievwa-Thompson’s success had also generated fresh interest in fencing, with athletes from other sports now seeing fencing as another avenue to achieve international recognition.

Adeyinka Samuel, newly elected President of the CFF, also celebrated Osievwa-Thompson’s historic achievement.

“I think it is a great achievement for Nigeria and Africa.

“There is a lot of work ahead, but with my vision and plans, I believe great things are coming,” Samuel said.

He said his priorities would include strengthening partnerships, promoting inclusivity and ensuring equal opportunities for all member federations.

Samuel, who has vast experience in African fencing, said he was determined to use his knowledge to address some of the challenges facing the sport on the continent.

He said he would focus on grassroots development by working with schools to identify young talents.

The CFF president added that he would also collaborate with equipment manufacturers to make fencing equipment more affordable.

Samuel became the first African to occupy the prestigious position, a development he described as a major achievement for both Nigeria and Africa.

Newsmen report that the achievements of Osievwa-Thompson and Samuel have provided fresh hope for the development of fencing in Nigeria and Africa.

Their achievements are expected to open more opportunities for young athletes and strengthen Nigeria’s position in international fencing.

The developments have also reinforced the belief that Nigerian fencers can compete and succeed at the highest level, with proper support, development and opportunities.