In a strategic move to support youth development and sports promotion in Nigeria, the Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has pledged its support for the upcoming African International Wrestling Championship, following a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Nigerian Professional Wrestling Federation (NPWF).
The visit, held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Command Headquarters in Lagos, saw the NPWF delegation led by its National President, Chief John Uche formally inform the Command about the international tournament scheduled to hold from October 18–19, 2025, at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Anambra State.
Speaking during the meeting, CSC Oscar Ivara, Public Relations Officer of the Command, noted that the partnership reflected the Service’s broader commitment to national development beyond its core mandate, particularly in the area of youth empowerment through sports.
Chief Uche disclosed that the tournament will feature wrestling legends and emerging athletes from Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and several African nations. He emphasized that the championship aims to harness Nigeria’s untapped wrestling potential and empower over 100 Nigerian youths through grassroots development programs.
He further stated that the Federation’s wider objectives include addressing youth restiveness, reducing poverty, and fostering sustainable employment through sports initiatives.
In his remarks, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, the Customs Area Controller, commended the NPWF for its vision and recognized the Federation’s initiative as timely and impactful. He reaffirmed the Service’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders driving youth-focused development, citing the continued support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, psc (+), for sporting and empowerment programs nationwide.
“The Nigeria Customs Service, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General, remains committed to promoting activities that build national unity and uplift our youth,” Onyeka stated.
The visit concluded with the unveiling of the championship trophy and a formal presentation of an Award of Excellence to Comptroller Onyeka by the NPWF leadership, signifying mutual commitment to the success of the upcoming tournament and future collaborations.
