The International Fencing Federation (FIE) has selected Nigerian teenage fencer Wisdom Okanlawon as one of five athletes from 30 African countries to attend a prestigious high-performance training camp and compete in the 2025 Cadet & Junior World Championships in Wuxi, China.

The training camp, scheduled from April 1 to 12, is organized in collaboration with Olympic Solidarity. It aims to identify and support top talent across Africa, offering athletes world-class training and competitive opportunities. The camp will feature some of the most promising fencers from around the world.

Okanlawon, 18, has been recognized for his remarkable achievements in fencing, and his inclusion in this elite group highlights his potential to excel at the highest level. His selection is a testament to his exceptional skill, dedication, and promise to represent Africa on the global stage. The camp will provide him the chance to refine his abilities under the guidance of leading coaches.

Following the training camp, Okanlawon will compete at the World Championships from April 13 to 15, where he will face off against the top junior fencers worldwide.

“This opportunity marks a significant milestone for Okanlawon, Nigerian fencing, and African fencing as a whole. It demonstrates the increasing recognition of African athletes in international sports and provides a platform for Okanlawon to showcase his talent globally,” said the Nigerian Fencing Federation in a statement. “His journey is an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the continent, proving that hard work and dedication can lead to extraordinary opportunities.”

The President of the Nigerian Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, expressed pride in Okanlawon’s selection, describing him as a homegrown talent who has distinguished himself in the sport. “I am not surprised that Okanlawon was selected because he has shown great promise since we took him up. He is a leader among his colleagues, and this is the kind of spirit we are encouraging in our athletes,” Samuel added. “We are thrilled that he will be training with top coaches and competing against the best fencers in the world.”