CSR: Customs Western Marine Command donates sporting facility to Lagos community
CSR
Lagos, February 11, 2026 Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr Bashir Adeniyi has inaugurated a sports complex donated by the Western Marine Command (WMC) of the Nigeria Customs Service to the Coconut-Apapa community in Lagos as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
The facility, named the Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena (WASA), is aimed at promoting youth development, discovering sporting talents and steering young people away from crime and social vices.
Speaking at the inauguration, on Wednesday, Adeniyi said the project reflected Customs’ commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment.
“It is my pleasure to be here to commission this sports arena constructed for our officers and men, as well as members of the host community.
“Also, because of the nature of our job, we need to keep fit at all times. Our duties are demanding, and it is necessary that we strike a balance. I encourage all officers to take physical fitness seriously,” he said.
Adeniyi urged officers and residents, including personnel within Zone ‘A’, to make maximum use of the facility to remain physically and mentally fit.
Earlier, the Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, said the sports arena was dedicated in honour of the Comptroller-General in recognition of his diligence, professionalism and dedication to service.
Ntadi described the project as more than just a recreational centre.
“WASA is a practical expression of our belief that security is not only about enforcement, patrols and interceptions. It is also about prevention.
“It is about giving our youths alternatives to crime, restiveness, drug abuse and other social vices.
“When we provide safe and positive spaces for recreation, mentorship and healthy competition, we are investing in peace, stability and the future of our communities,” he added.
According to him, the presence of the CGC at the inauguration underscores the importance the Nigeria Customs Service places on community development, youth empowerment and sustainable peace.
“WASA is aimed at taking youths off the streets and into constructive engagement. It is built to become a centre of unity, growth and positive transformation, to nurture talents, inspire dreams and keep young people away from negative influences,” Ntadi stressed.
He maintained that Customs’ CSR initiatives had created opportunities to positively impact lives in host communities.
“The Comptroller-General is a shining example to us in the Service. Every controller now strives to contribute meaningfully through CSR initiatives that impact society,” he said.
The inauguration attracted community members, traders and other stakeholders. Sporting activities including football, basketball and table tennis were staged to mark the event.
Many traders and residents temporarily left their businesses to participate in or watch the games, turning the inauguration into a community celebration