Inkosi Brou: Nigeria’s fencing sensation dreams of Olympic glory

Inkosi Brou, Nigeria’s prodigious fencing sensation, remains steadfast in his ambition to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Despite bowing out in the knockout stage of the individual men’s sabre event at the recently concluded 23rd African Fencing Championships in Lagos, the 18-year-old views the experience as a critical step on his Olympic journey.

“I believe my 2028 Olympic dream is still intact. It’s a step-by-step journey, and I just need to stay consistent,” Brou said with calm conviction.

Nigeria’s highest-ranked fencer at both junior and senior levels, Brou delivered a spirited performance at the continental event. In the group stage, he opened with a dominant 5-0 victory over Guinea’s Conte Aboubacar, followed by a 5-3 win against Algeria’s Akram Bounabi. Although he suffered losses to Egypt’s Ziad Elsissy and Tunisia’s Ahmed Ferjani, the latter the reigning African champion, he bounced back with a 5-1 triumph over Niger Republic’s Ali Djibo.

The results saw Brou finish among the top three in his group of six, earning a spot in the knockout round. In a closely fought bout against Niger Republic’s fifth seed, Evann Girault, Brou took an early lead. But a tactical slip shifted the momentum, allowing Girault to mount a comeback and seal a 15-11 win.

It was a disappointing outcome, but not a deterrent for the bronze medallist at the 2025 African Junior Championships, who is no stranger to adversity or to making history. Brou etched his name in the record books as the first Nigerian fencer to win a medal at an international tournament, a feat that continues to inspire hope for the sport’s future in the country.

“Travelling and competing at this level is tough, especially with my Olympic aspirations. But with the support of my parents and coaches, I’m managing well,” he said. “Hopefully, it will all pay off with a ticket to the 2028 Olympics.”

Beyond his athletic goals, Brou carries a powerful legacy. He is the grandson of the late Prof. Dora Akunyili, the revered former Director-General of NAFDAC. Her trailblazing spirit, he says, remains a guiding force in his life.

“Yes, my grandmother’s influence has opened doors for me. What she achieved continues to inspire and guide us. We’re trying to follow the path she laid down,” he said.

Brou is also deeply passionate about the growth of fencing in Nigeria. He praised the successful hosting of the African Championships in Lagos, calling it a major step forward for the sport.

“Hosting the continental tournament means a lot for fencing in Nigeria. It was well-organised and showed that we’re capable of handling more international events. I hope it sparks more awareness and encourages young athletes to take up the sport.”

For Inkosi Brou, fencing is more than competition; it is a platform to push boundaries, elevate Nigerian representation in lesser-followed sports, and serve as an inspiration to the next generation. With Los Angeles 2028 in sight, he is forging ahead—one bout, one lesson, one victory at a time.