Customs Eastern Marine Command Hosts Aerobic Exercise to Engender Work-Life Balance
By Titus Omajali
On Saturday, 27 July 2025, the Eastern Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Port Harcourt, hosted the second session of its monthly Work-Life Balance with Aerobic Exercise at the open field of the Federal Secretariat, Port Harcourt.
It will be recalled that the Eastern Marine Command launched the initiative on 28 June 2025 in collaboration with the Association of Heads of Federal Government Establishments (AHFGE), Rivers State Chapter. The programme, codenamed Work-Life Balance and Aerobic Exercise, was introduced to promote physical well-being, teamwork, and camaraderie among participants.
During the inaugural session, the Comptroller of the Eastern Marine Command, Comptroller Chika Dim, underscored the importance of physical fitness and work-life balance. He noted that the initiative was inspired by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who also serves as Chairman of the World Customs Organisation Council.
Comptroller Dim explained that the operational challenges faced by paramilitary agencies, including long patrols, combat duties, and high-risk assignments, make it imperative to prioritise officers’ health and well-being. He emphasised that regular exercise and stress management are key to achieving this, highlighting the remarkable improvement in turnout compared to the maiden edition.
Also present at the second edition was the Chairperson of AHFGE, Rivers State Chapter, Mrs Ifeyinwa James, who was unavoidably absent during the maiden session. Overwhelmed by the impressive turnout, she actively participated in all the exercise routines.
“I am very happy and deeply appreciative of the Eastern Marine Area Controller, Comptroller Chika Dim, for his unwavering commitment to the Association and the introduction of this commendable initiative,” she said. “The support of the Customs Management, under the leadership of CGC Adewale Adeniyi, is also noteworthy.”
She added humorously, “You can see the momentum and enthusiasm. I can’t remember the last time I did a workout. Honestly, I feel 40 years old again. It’s great, I thank the NCS.”
Comptroller Dim, visibly elated by the participation, encouraged attendees to spread the word and invite more colleagues, so that everyone within the command and affiliated establishments can benefit.
A medical team and wellness resource personnel were on hand to guide participants through the session, which lasted nearly three hours. True to his hospitable nature, Comptroller Dim treated participants to light refreshments after the workout.
