American-based teenage fencer Peluola Akinbamiro has pledged her allegiance to Nigeria on the international stage, Afrosport reports.
The 13-year-old student from Fort Bend Fencing Academy in Houston, Texas, revealead that her love for Nigeria inspired her decision to reach out to the Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF), aiming to make her international debut for the country.
Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigerian Fencing Federation, noted that more fencers from abroad are eager to join the federation and represent their homeland.
“I am thrilled with Akinbamiro’s decision,” Samuel said. “Nigeria has the potential to compete with the best in the world, and having talented fencers like her will inspire our homegrown athletes to excel.
“We believe her addition to the team will positively impact the sport’s fortunes. As she begins her international journey this year, we hope she can bring more medals to Nigeria, especially as we aim to have our athletes compete in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.”
Samuel was adamant that the Akinbamiro will help improve the quality of the Nigerian team and her decision will also inspire others to follow suit.
“We are happy that many of these athletes recognise their origins and want to be part of our efforts to develop the sport in Nigeria, especially as we host the African Championships this year and the Commonwealth Championships next year,” he added.
“Akinbamiro will surely be a valuable addition to our team, given her background in the sport and her young age, as we target the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games.”
An elated Akinbamiro shared her excitement about embracing fencing: “I decided to take up fencing after watching people play with such passion during the World Cup and other events. Fencing has taught me patience and self-awareness. Representing Nigeria is important to me because it is my motherland, and I am proud to wear its colors in international competitions.”
“My goal is to become the best fencer I can be while also pursuing higher education. I want to reach the highest levels in fencing. My parents’ unwavering support has been my biggest motivation. They have dedicated their time and resources to help me succeed in fencing. I am excited about the uniqueness of the sport, especially the thrill of fighting with a sword,” she added.
