India has continued its dominant performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, leading the medal table as the competition enters its final stages.
The Indian team has collected 17 gold, 13 silver and 13 bronze medals, ahead of England with two gold, two silver and nine bronze medals. Nigeria currently occupies third position, with Cyprus fourth.
India secured another gold medal after defeating South Africa in the senior women’s epee team final. Indian captain Taniksha Khatri described the victory as a proud moment, saying teamwork, strategic planning and psychological preparation helped the team overcome a tough South African side.
India’s fencing coach, Shrihari Pise, said the athletes’ commitment to training and collective effort contributed to their success. He added that the team’s achievements could inspire a new generation of Indian fencers, with the 2026 Asian Games identified as their next major target.
South Africa’s Alexandra Lancaster said her team was proud of winning silver, describing the performance as a strong collective effort. She said the experience of competing against leading fencing nations would help the team prepare for future Commonwealth competitions.
Nigeria has also recorded a historic performance, with 16-year-old Oghenegaren Osievwo-Thompson winning the country’s first international fencing gold medal in the men’s U-23 epee event. Oluwafolayemi Akinyosoye added bronze in men’s sabre, while Nigeria’s wheelchair fencing team has contributed two silver and eight bronze medals.
The championships, being held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, Lagos, have provided athletes from across the Commonwealth with valuable international experience. Nigeria’s performance, particularly its historic U-23 gold and strong showing in wheelchair fencing, has further raised hopes for the growth of the sport in the country.
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