By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

The Comptroller-General of Nigerian Customs, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has emphasized that the development of sports is a deliberate policy of Nigeria Customs aimed at fostering the growth and empowerment of Nigerian youth.

For over two weeks, the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, has successfully organized the first phase of the National Volleyball Premier League for Men and Women.

Adeniyi made this statement on Saturday at the indoor basketball hall of Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja after watching the Nigeria Customs male team secure a straight-sets victory over the Adamawa Spikers.

Speaking after the game, the Customs Boss highlighted the strategic importance of investing in sports, saying, "It’s a deliberate effort by our organization. There is significant value we can gain from sporting excellence. The Nigeria Customs has a rich history of producing national and international champions in sports, from boxing to athletics."

"Our volleyball team has performed remarkably, even participating in the African Championships. Similarly, our basketball team is excelling. We used to compete in the National Football League, so our tradition of excellence in sports is well-established. This is why we not only support our athletes within the Customs but also extend our sponsorship to various federations seeking our assistance."

Reflecting on his own experiences, Adeniyi added, "I participated in volleyball tournaments when I was younger. It was a thriving competition and a platform for selecting top athletes to represent us at national and international levels."

Addressing the benefits of sports for officers, Adeniyi noted that physical fitness enhances performance. "Sporting activities require discipline, teamwork, strength, stability, and intelligence—all of which are critical attributes for Customs officers. By cultivating these virtues through sports, they become better officers."

He further acknowledged the recent lull in sporting activities within the Customs Service, saying, "In the last two or three years, we’ve seen a slowdown in participation. When the federation approached us for support, we were more than happy to step in and help."