Nigeria is set to host Africa’s first-ever Wheelchair Fencing Academy as the Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF) renews its commitment to creating equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in sports.
The three-day academy, scheduled for Aug. 5 to 7 at Rugby School Nigeria in Victoria Island, Lagos, will bring together athletes, coaches, referees and volunteers from Nigeria and other countries, including Brazil, the United States, United Kingdom, Rwanda, Liberia and Ghana.
Organised by World Abilitysport in partnership with the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, NFF and REACH Africa, the ENABLE Wheelchair Fencing Academy will provide intensive training in fencing techniques, coaching, competition rules, athlete classification and officiating. Participants will also compete in foil and epee events at the Commonwealth Championships following the academy.
World Abilitysport Acting CEO Harry Cootes said the initiative would help make fencing more accessible to people with disabilities, while REACH Africa Chairperson Rachael Samuel described the academy as a major step towards inclusive sports development in Nigeria. The organisers said the programme would create sustainable pathways for talent development, coach training and the emergence of future Paralympians.
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