At just 13 years old, Nigerian-born fencer Peluola Akinbamiro is already making strides in the sport.
The US-based prodigy recently debuted at the 2025 African Junior Fencing Championships, describing the experience as a crucial stepping stone toward her dream of competing at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Akinbamiro entered the tournament with the goal of gaining international exposure ahead of the 2025 World Junior Fencing Championships in China (April 7-15) and the Senior African Championship in June. Despite facing stiff competition, she remains determined to improve.
Lessons from Luanda
Reflecting on her performance in Luanda, Angola, Akinbamiro maintained a positive outlook.
“I didn’t feel any pressure representing Nigeria for the first time at the African Junior Championships. My focus was to give my best for my country and myself. It was a challenging competition, and as I prepare for the event in China, I am committed to learning from my mistakes here. The ups and downs of the tournament affected my performance, but they also reinforced the importance of always being ready and striving for excellence,” she said.
Looking ahead, she remains focused on her Olympic ambitions.
“My dream is to represent Nigeria at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics when I will be 16 and at the right age to compete,” she added.
Inkosi Brou Climbs World Rankings
While Akinbamiro gained valuable experience, another young Nigerian fencer, Inkosi Brou, made history at the championship by securing Nigeria’s only medal. The teenage sensation won bronze in the men’s foil category, elevating his world junior ranking from 23rd to 22nd.
Brou, the grandson of former NAFDAC Director General Prof. Dora Akunyili, has emerged as one of Africa’s most promising young fencers. Competing in multiple international tournaments this year, he is on a mission to become Nigeria’s first Olympic fencer. His journey continues this month in Budapest, Hungary, where he will compete in another crucial qualification event for Los Angeles 2028.
Bronze Medal Success in Angola
Brou’s path to the podium was remarkable. Competing in a group featuring fencers from Egypt, Senegal, Algeria, and Guinea, he advanced to the round of 16 and secured a bye into the quarterfinals. He then dominated Senegal’s Lotfi Ibrihen with a commanding 15-6 victory.
In the semifinals, he faced a tough battle against Egypt’s Yassin Khodir. Despite a close contest, he narrowly lost 15-11, settling for bronze. Nigeria ultimately ranked sixth in the team standings.
Preparing for the World Championships
With the World Junior Fencing Championships in China fast approaching, both Akinbamiro and Brou are intensifying their preparations. Nigerian-based fencer Wisdom Okanlawon is also expected to join their training camp ahead of the competition.
For these young athletes, their experience in Angola is just the beginning. With dedication, skill, and an unwavering pursuit of success, Nigerian fencing is gaining momentum, and their Olympic dreams are closer to becoming a reality.
