Nigeria Customs Partners National Sports Commission to Host African Volleyball Inter-Club Women’s Championship

In a significant move to revitalise sports in Nigeria and enhance the country’s global sporting profile, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has partnered with the National Sports Commission (NSC) to host the African Volleyball Inter-Club Women’s Championship in April 2025.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, made this known during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Malam Shehu Dikko, on Monday in Abuja.

He emphasised that the Customs Service is committed to using sports as a tool to promote national unity, instil pride, and create opportunities for youth development.

He further expressed confidence that the championship, which is expected to attract top teams from across Africa, would not only showcase Nigeria’s organisational capacity but also serve as a catalyst for fostering the country’s return to sporting excellence.

“For the first time in a long time, we have tested and accomplished professionals driving sports development in Nigeria. We have no doubt that the glory days of sports are back,” Adeniyi stated.

The Customs Boss revealed that the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) had granted the NCS hosting rights to organise the championship in collaboration with the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF).

The event is scheduled to take place in Abuja from 1 to 14 April 2025, bringing together Africa’s best volleyball teams.

CGC Adeniyi assured that the Customs Service was fully prepared to deliver a world-class tournament that would not only boost Nigeria’s reputation in international sports but also inspire young athletes across the country.

Responding to the initiative, Malam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, commended CGC Adeniyi’s vision, describing it as a landmark effort in positioning Nigeria as a leading sports hub in Africa.

“This championship is not just an opportunity to showcase our athletes but also a platform to inspire young Nigerians and demonstrate our organisational capabilities to the world. Sports are a unifying force, and we will work to ensure that this event reflects the best of what Nigeria can offer,” Dikko affirmed.

He assured the full backing of the NSC, including access to facilities, technical expertise, and logistical support, to ensure the championship meets international standards and sets a benchmark for future sporting events in Nigeria.

In his remarks, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr Habu Gumel, praised CGC Adeniyi for integrating sports into the Customs Service’s agenda, noting that such initiatives were crucial for Nigeria’s broader sports development goals.

“We must be deliberate in our preparations and ensure that this championship becomes a springboard for hosting more international tournaments.

“The National Sports Commission is fully committed to providing all necessary support,” Gumel stated.