President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, has been elected president of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation, becoming the first Nigerian and African to lead the body.

Samuel defeated the incumbent president, Marie-France Dufour, by 14 votes to six at the federation's elective Annual General Meeting held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, on Saturday.

His election ends the longstanding tradition of leadership of the federation by representatives from countries including Scotland, Australia and Canada.

The development coincides with Nigeria's hosting of the Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, which has attracted participants from more than 20 countries.

For the first time, U-23 and wheelchair fencing events will also be recognised as medal-winning competitions at the championships, expanding participation and inclusion in the sport.

Delegates praised Samuel's leadership and vision, highlighting his transition from a world-class athlete to president of the Nigeria Fencing Federation.

Under his leadership, Nigeria has hosted FIE-sanctioned Junior World Cups and African Championships and is now the first African country to host the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships.