Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson, 17, said his decision to switch allegiance was driven by ambition and his desire to fulfil his Olympic dream.
Esiovwa-Thompson told The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Fencing Championships at the Rugby School, Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.
He made his international debut for Nigeria at the championships.
Esiovwa-Thompson won Nigeria’s first gold medal at an international fencing tournament on Sunday emerging champion in the men’s U-23 epee event.
The teenager remained unbeaten throughout the competition and defeated three top Indian opponents on his way to the gold medal.
“There’s something in me that has always longed to fence for Nigeria.
“Even though I grew up in England and won several medals there, I knew representing Nigeria would be the right path to fulfil my Olympic dream,” he said.
Esiovwa-Thompson was cheered by his grandparents at the venue of the historic achievement.
Reflecting on his success, he said a lot of hard work and sacrifice had gone into winning the gold medal.
“A lot of training, dedication, sweat, and tears went into this. I’m just happy I won in front of Nigerians, in front of my family,” he said.
He said having competed internationally for England was confident of performing on the big stage.
“I’ve been fencing longer than I haven’t been fencing.
“I knew how to stay calm, stay relaxed, and take every match one at a time,” he said.
The teenager said he only realised the importance of his achievement shortly before the final.
“I didn’t realise I was the first Nigerian to win gold at the Commonwealth Championships until just before the final.
“Doing this in front of my grandparents, in front of the fans, it’s overwhelming. Everything is just coming to me now, and I’m proud to represent my country,” he said.
Esiovwa-Thompson, who was initially unnoticed at the championships, quickly attracted attention after his flawless performance in the group stage.
He attributed his success in part to the crowd’s support.
“It was the first time I experienced that kind of support.
“The cheers from the fans hit me every time I stepped onto the stage. Their support was key to my victory,” he said.
In spite of being Nigeria’s lone representative in the event, Esiovwa-Thompson said he did not feel pressured.
“Because I’ve been fencing all my life, I knew what to do. I stayed calm, stayed relaxed, and took every match one at a time,” he said.
His victory marked a historic breakthrough for Nigeria in international fencing.
According to him, the achievement is the beginning of a journey he hopes will take him to the Olympic Games, where he wants to represent Nigeria with pride.
