In a groundbreaking move to promote youth empowerment and social inclusion through sport, the Nigeria Fencing Federation (NFF), with the backing of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), is exploring a strategic partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The initiative seeks to harness the power of fencing as a transformative tool for child development, education, peacebuilding, and sustainable growth, both in Nigeria and potentially across the African continent.
A high-level meeting to discuss the collaboration was held at UNICEF Nigeria’s headquarters in Lagos during the recently concluded 23rd African Fencing Championships. In attendance were FIE Secretary-General Gulnora Saidova, African Fencing Confederation President Mbagnick Ndiaye, and NFF President Adeyinka Samuel, who met with senior UNICEF Nigeria officials to outline a collaborative framework.
UNICEF Nigeria was represented by Ronak Khan, Deputy Representative (Programmes); Kundra Bharat, Skill Development and Youth Empowerment Specialist; and Emmanuel Bamidele, Youth Engagement and Partnership Officer. Also present were Novak Perovic, FIE Vice President and African Confederation Vice President; Obinna Anyanwu, Vice Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Executive Committee Member; and Rachael Samuel, Vice President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation.
During the meeting, NFF President Adeyinka Samuel shared the federation’s vision of using fencing as a catalyst for social change and youth development. Discussions emphasized the immense potential of the partnership to positively impact communities across Nigeria and beyond.
FIE Secretary-General Gulnora Saidova stated: “At the FIE, we are committed to developing fencing globally—not only as a sport but as a platform for social and cultural development. We are excited about the opportunities discussed with UNICEF Nigeria and deeply value the potential of this collaboration to enhance lives across Africa and beyond.”
NFF President Samuel added: “This partnership marks a significant step toward using fencing to empower and uplift young people across Nigeria. We are proud to scale our grassroots efforts into a national movement for education, inclusion, and opportunity through sport.”
UNICEF Nigeria expressed strong interest in the proposal, noting its alignment with their core objectives, including child protection, youth engagement, skill development, and peacebuilding through sport. The organization confirmed its readiness for nationwide implementation through its existing youth programs and infrastructure. If finalized, this would represent UNICEF Nigeria’s first sports-based development initiative.
The proposed collaboration is poised to become a landmark program for youth and fencing development in Africa, with all parties committed to building a scalable and impactful model for long-term success.