The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) commitment to fostering sports development as he hosted a delegation from the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVF) at the Customs Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, on Friday, March 7, 2025.
The delegation, led by NVF President Engineer Musa Nimrod, was also joined by the Benin Republic Volleyball Federation President, Ali Yaro. The CGC expressed delight at the growing prominence of the upcoming continental volleyball championship, which has attracted significant interest from clubs across Africa.
CGC Adeniyi described the event as an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s capacity to host international tournaments and further strengthen regional collaboration.
“I want to sincerely welcome you to Nigeria. Whenever I meet colleagues from Customs and other institutions across the sub-region, I feel a strong sense of brotherhood. This championship, being oversubscribed well ahead of time, reflects our collective quest to showcase Nigeria’s capacity to host an international tournament of this magnitude,” CGC Adeniyi stated.
The Customs boss also emphasized that the Nigeria Customs Service is not only a key participant in the tournament but also a strategic supporter. He assured the delegation that all necessary arrangements—including facilities, accommodation, hospitality, and logistics would be meticulously handled to ensure a world-class experience for all participants.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, NVF President Engineer Musa Nimrod thanked the CGC for his unwavering support, highlighting how various volleyball federations across the continent have shown keen interest in joining the tournament.
Also speaking, Benin Republic Volleyball Federation President, Ali Yaro, commended the organisers, noting that the championship would further strengthen ties among participating nations.
“With teams from at least eight countries confirmed and a maximum of 24 to 27 teams expected, organisers are confident that the event will set a new standard for volleyball tournaments in Africa,” Ali Yaro said.
He also commended the CGC for the NCS’s preparedness to inspect some of the designated venues, including the stadium, and for engaging key stakeholders such as the military to ensure a smooth execution of the championship.
The upcoming tournament is expected to enhance Nigeria’s reputation in the international volleyball community while promoting sports diplomacy across the continent.
