By Lucy Nyambi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Muhammed Area Command (MMAC), on Thursday, 15 May 2025, launched its second-quarter inter-agency and stakeholder sports competition to promote unity and collaboration among Customs, partner agencies, and stakeholders.
The event, held at the Bashir Adeniyi Sports Arena, brought together teams from various agencies and logistics firms, including Customs, the Nigeria Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO), and Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO), to compete in a spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
In his opening address, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Michael Awe, highlighted the importance of physical fitness and emotional well-being in national service.
“For us to remain mentally alert, we must be physically sound,” he said. “The aim is to foster unity, collaboration, and synergy to enhance effective and efficient performance.”
Speaking after the competition, Comptroller Awe reiterated the initiative’s broader objectives, noting its impact beyond physical health.
“When there is unity, there is collaboration, and everyone works together. That inevitably boosts efficiency, drives productivity, and ultimately increases revenue. This isn’t just a Customs initiative, it’s for everyone and about fostering unity.”
Stakeholders commended the Service for its inclusive approach and innovative use of sports to strengthen inter-agency relationships.
Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), MMAC Chapter, Bola Balogun, lauded the initiative, saying, “What a great way to unwind. This business can be stressful, and instead of heading to a beer parlour, we now have a healthier outlet. It’s a new initiative we intend to adopt in our association.”
The day concluded with cheers, celebration, and anticipation for the final phase of the competition, scheduled for June, 2025.
