By Dorcas Francis Koji
India have taken an early lead on the medals table at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, winning five gold medals from the nine events decided so far as the competition entered its third day.
England sit second with two gold medals, while Cyprus and hosts Nigeria have claimed one gold each.
Nigeria’s historic gold was won by 17-year-old Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson, whose triumph in the men’s U-23 epee event secured the country’s first-ever gold medal at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships.
India’s strong performance also includes seven silver and 12 bronze medals, while England have added one silver and five bronze medals to their two golds. Australia complete the top five with one silver and one bronze.
The championships have provided a colourful spectacle at Rugby School Nigeria in Atlantic City, Victoria Island, Lagos, with the clash of blades, enthusiastic supporters and flags from across the Commonwealth adding to the atmosphere.
The event is also breaking new ground with wheelchair fencing making its debut as a medal event. The discipline was previously featured as a demonstration sport at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in London, but its inclusion in Lagos marks another important step towards greater inclusivity in fencing.
For Nigeria, hosting the championships for the first time represents a significant milestone for the sport. The host nation is competing with a 12 member team comprising six men and six women against strong opposition from South Africa, India and other Commonwealth nations.
Participants have also praised the organisation of the championships, with fencers from South Africa, England, Australia and India commending the Local Organising Committee for its efficiency and the warm welcome they have received in Lagos.
England’s women’s sabre gold medallist, Bethany Brierley, said she has enjoyed the experience in Lagos and praised the atmosphere surrounding the competition.
“I am enjoying myself in Lagos because the environment is inspiring and the people are very friendly,” Brierley said.
She also highlighted the efforts of young Nigerian fencers to develop the sport in the country, adding that their enthusiasm showed a strong desire to raise fencing’s profile.
With more events still to come, India will be looking to strengthen its position at the top of the standings, while Nigeria will hope its historic breakthrough inspires further success as the championships continue in Lagos.
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