Nigeria’s fencing sensation, Inkosi Brou, remains optimistic that his dream of qualifying for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games is still alive.
This comes in spite of his early exit in the knockout stage of the men’s individual sabre event at the 23rd African Fencing Championships.
Brou, in a statement on Tuesday by the Nigerian Fencing Federation (NFF), praised the African Championships in Lagos as a positive step for fencing.
He expressed hope that more such events would help increase awareness and involvement among young Nigerians.
“Hosting this event meant a lot. It was well-run and showed Nigeria can host more international fencing competitions,” he added.
Brou acknowledged the challenges of travelling and competing internationally, especially while chasing Olympic qualification.
“With my parents’ and coaches’ support, I’m coping well. Hopefully, it all leads to a 2028 Olympic ticket,” he stated.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Brou is a grandson of the late NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Dora Akunyili.
He reflected on his grandmother’s legacy, saying her accomplishments continue to open doors and inspire him.
“What she achieved still guides us. We’re doing our best to follow the path she set,” Brou added.
Though disappointed, Brou, a 2025 African Junior Championships bronze medallist, remains determined to pursue his Olympic goal.
“My 2028 Olympic dream is still alive. It’s a journey, and I just have to stay consistent,” he said confidently.
Brou, Nigeria’s top-ranked fencer at both junior and senior levels, showcased impressive skills during the continental competition which ended on Sunday in Lagos.
He advanced from the group stage, competing against a highly experienced pool of international athletes.
In the preliminary round, Brou defeated Guinea’s Conte Aboubacar 5-0 and overcame Algeria’s Akram Bounabi 5-3.
He later lost 0-5 to Egypt’s Ziad Elsissy, but beat Niger Republic’s Ali Djibo 5-1 in his next bout.
Brou ended the group stage with a 0-5 loss to African champion Ahmed Ferjani of Tunisia.
In spite of mixed results, Brou ranked among the top three in his group, earning a place in the knockout round.
In the first-round match, Brou took an early lead against Niger Republic’s fifth seed, Evann Girault.
However, a tactical slip allowed Girault to rally back and win the close match 15-11. (NAN)
