American-based teenage fencer Peluola Akinbamiro has
pledged her allegiance to Nigeria on the international stage.
The 13-year-old student from Fort Bend Fencing Academy
in Houston expressed that her love for Nigeria inspired her decision to reach
out to the Nigerian Fencing Federation, 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. 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 said.
"We are happy that many of these athletes
recognize 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. 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," Samuel added.
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.
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