Flowerbud News

Author: Ejide Onibiyo

  • Customs, NDLEA deepen collaboration as Tincan commander visits kirikiri terminal

    Newly appointed NDLEA Tincan Commander, Solomon Omotosho, visits Kirikiri Terminal, meets Acting Customs Controller Bolaji Adigun

     

     

    Customs, NDLEA deepen collaboration as Tincan commander visits kirikiri terminal
    Lagos, March 26, 2026 , The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, has pledged to deepen collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to prevent the entry of illicit substances into the country.
    Adigun, acting Controller, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command (KLT) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), disclosed this in a statement through the Public Relations Officer, Victor Ogagbor, on Thursday in Lagos.
    He commended the newly appointed Commander of the NDLEA, Tincan Strategic Command, Commander Solomon Omotosho, for extending partnership to the command.
    According to Adigun, the visit aimed to strengthen collaboration between the agencies in the collective fight against narcotics trafficking within the maritime corridor.
    He described the engagement as timely, noting that the port environment remained a critical frontline in preventing illicit drug movements.
    Adigun reaffirmed the command’s commitment to robust enforcement and the smooth facilitation of legitimate trade.
    He stated that sustained intelligence sharing, coordinated cargo profiling, and joint examination procedures were key strategies for enhancing operational effectiveness and curbing the activities of drug trafficking syndicates.
    In his remarks, Omotosho said the visit was necessary to establish a strong working relationship with the KLT command and reinforce operational synergy in tackling narcotics trafficking.
    He highlighted the importance of seamless communication, proactive intelligence sharing, and coordinated enforcement actions to achieve measurable results.
    Omotosho added that the NDLEA remained committed to working closely with the Nigeria Customs Service to disrupt illicit drug networks and strengthen national security.
    The visit featured the exchange of plaques between both agencies, symbolising goodwill and a shared commitment to sustained cooperation.
    The engagement concluded with both agencies reaffirming their resolve to deepen collaboration, enhance operational coordination, and maintain a united front in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders from illicit activities.

     

     

    A group picture of customs officers Kirikiri Lighter Terminal command and NDLEA Tincan Island command

  • Customs FOU Zone ‘A’ strengthens interagency synergy in Ogun

    The Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Zone A, Ikeja-Lagos, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, and
    Ogun State NDLEA Commander of Narcotics, Tijjani Rabe, when his team visited NDLEA on the Nigeria Police Force in Ogun on Monday

     

    Customs FOU Zone ‘A’ strengthens interagency synergy in Ogun
    March 17, 2026, The Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Zone A, Ikeja-Lagos, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, said it  embarked on a strategic working visit to the Ogun State Commands of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigeria Police Force.
    Aliyu made the disclosure when his team visited NDLEA on the Nigeria Police Force in Ogun on Monday.
    The FOU Zone’A’ head said the visit was to reinforcing interagency collaboration in the fight against smuggling, illicit drug trafficking, and other criminal activities along the Ogun corridor.
    Comptroller Aliyu disclosed that over 60 per cent of the two tons of Cannabis Indica intercepted by FOU Zone A in just three months of his administration was seized within Ogun State.
     He lamented that the intensified crackdown had come at a heavy cost, following the death of a gallant customs officer during one of the operations.
    “The Nigeria Customs Service will continue leveraging robust interagency cooperation to cripple the supply chains of saboteurs and rid the nation of substance abuse that threatens our peace and development,” Aliyu said.
    Aliyu mentioned that the fight against economic sabotage and narcotics could not be won by any single agency, but through collective resolve and coordinated action.
    “We seek the cooperation of our strategic partners, recognizing we cannot achieve this onerous task alone. Together, we will cripple the networks of saboteurs and safeguard the future of our nation,”he said.
    He re-assured the zero-tolerance policy of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, against illicit imports and substances harmful to national security.
    Aliyu said intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and coordinated enforcement with NDLEA would remain central to a well guided and better coordinated operations.
    Responding, Ogun State NDLEA Commander of Narcotics, Tijjani Rabe, commended Customs for its sustained enforcement drive and pledged deeper cooperation.
    “We are ready to strengthen intelligence sharing and joint operations aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks across the state.
    ” Beyond enforcement, we are engaging young adults and teenagers to reduce the appeal of hard drug usage, because prevention is as critical as interdiction,” Rabe said.
    During a separate courtesy call on the outgoing Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, now Assistant Inspector General of Police, Comptroller Aliyu emphasized the historic partnership between the Customs Service and the Nigeria Police Force.
    Aliyu  recalled the past collaborations that underscored the importance of institutional synergy.
    “Timely intelligence sharing and heightened situational awareness are essential in modern crime detection and prevention. Our unity stands as our greatest strength against evolving threats,” Aliyu remarked.
    He also expressed appreciation to the police leadership for their swift response and professionalism in ongoing efforts to apprehend those responsible for the killing of a Customs officer during an anti-smuggling operation.
    In his response, AIG Ogunlowo reaffirmed the Police Command’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Customs.
    “The Nigeria Police Force in Ogun State remains resolute in supporting Customs and other sister agencies in the fight against smuggling and criminality.
    “We will continue to provide timely intelligence, joint patrols, and coordinated strategies to ensure our borders and communities remain secure,” Ogunlowo assured.
    Comptroller Aliyu said that the visits were aimed at consolidating existing partnerships and reinforcing the shared commitment of security agencies to rid the Ogun border corridor of illicit drugs, smuggling activities, and other crimes threatening national development

     

  • Corporate lawyers key drivers of Nigeria’s economic growth – Expert

    All Bloomfield staff – Michael Abiiba, Partner,, Amanda Umobi Senior Associate,,Peace Lotechukwu, Senior Associate, Dr Ayodele Oni Partner,, Oreoluwa Onafowokan, Associate, and Adedoyin Afun, Partner during the 2026 edition of the Legal 500 General Counsel (GC) Powerlist Nigeria, hosted by his firm on Thursday night in Lagos

     

    Corporate lawyers key drivers of Nigeria’s economic growth – Exper

    Lagos, Feb. 27, 2026 , A legal practitioner, Mr Adedoyin Afun, has praised corporate legal leaders as the driving force behind Nigeria’s economic stability and institutional progress.

     

    Afun, partner at Bloomfield LP, made the remarks at the 2026 edition of the Legal 500 General Counsel (GC) Powerlist Nigeria, hosted by his firm on Thursday night in Lagos.

     

    The Bloomfield LP, a Nigerian law firm, hosted the event to spotlight outstanding in-house lawyers across the country.

     

    Welcoming the guests on behalf of his partners, Afun described the gathering as more than a celebration, saying it recognised the strategic role of in-house lawyers in nation-building.

     

    “On behalf of my partners, I welcome you to this special meeting. You are the progress drivers and the legal centre of the Nigerian economy,” he said.

     

    He described them as the “quiet force” behind key sectors, saying they ensured stability across energy, connectivity and finance.

     

    Afun stated that legal practitioners were not merely transactional advisers but custodians of professional honour and corporate integrity.

     

    He said lawyers were defined not only by the deals they closed but by the values they upheld.

     

    Afun said integrity remained the foundation of the profession, noting that weak professionalism undermined justice.

     

    He added that the call to honour and discipline applied across boardrooms and courtrooms alike.

     

    Reflecting on Bloomfield LP’s growth since 2017, Afun said the firm had expanded by supporting major clients and building trusted partnerships with in-house teams.

     

    He expressed appreciation to the corporate legal departments for managing legal risk and compliance, reaffirming the firm’s commitment to collaboration and ethical excellence.

     

    Also speaking at the event, Mr David Freeman, Global Business Development Manager at Legal 500, described it as a milestone for the organisation and Nigeria’s legal market.

     

    He added that the Nigeria GC Powerlist recognised outstanding in-house counsel and highlighted that Legal 500 had researched the global legal market for over 35 years.

     

    Freeman said the GC Powerlist highlighted individuals driving change and innovation, noting that in-house counsel had become increasingly influential globally.

     

    He said the editorial team interviewed selected general counsel in Nigeria, adding that the publication reached millions of users globally.

     

    Freeman described Nigeria as a “superpower” in Africa’s legal market and stressed the importance of deeper engagement in the jurisdiction.

     

    He, however, congratulated the honourees and thanked Bloomfield LP for hosting the event.

  • SCAN urges adequate structures ahead National Single Window rollout

    The President of SCAN, Mr Moses Ebosele,
    SCAN urges adequate structures ahead National Single Window rollout
    Lagos, March 17, 2026, In preparation to the rollout of the National Single Window (NSW) on March 27, 2026, the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) has called on the Federal Government and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that all necessary structures were put  in place for Nigerians to fully benefit from the initiative.
     The President of SCAN, Mr Moses Ebosele, said this in a statement made available to our correspondent in Lagos on Tuesday.
    According to him, the National Single Window represents a major step toward modernising Nigeria’s trade processes, improving transparency and enhancing operational efficiency at the nation’s ports, its implementation should be carefully structured to avoid disruptions.
    Ebosele said the initiative had potential to simplify documentation processes, reduce cargo clearance time, and strengthen coordination among government agencies involved in international trade.
    The SCAN president said that the success of the NSC transformative platform depends  on adequate preparation, strong institutional coordination and proper integration of stakeholders.
    “The introduction of the National Single Window is a welcome development and a major reform capable of improving Nigeria’s trade competitiveness.
    “The NSW  secretariat should also ensures that all operational, technical and institutional frameworks are properly established before the official rollout.
    “All the port users, freight forwarders, shipping companies, terminal operators and regulatory agencies should be adequately prepared and properly integrated into the system to prevent confusion, delays or disruptions in cargo clearance processes once the platform goes live,” he said.
    Ebosele pleaded with  the National Single Window Secretariat to intensify engagement with industry stakeholders  assuring adequate testing, training and system integration are completed ahead of the launch date.
    He noted that a reform of this magnitude requires robust infrastructure, seamless inter-agency connectivity and adequate sensitisation of stakeholders.
     Ebosele said the rollout without ensuring full operational of the established components  could create avoidable challenges for port users and stakeholders.
    He emphasised that the maritime industry remained a critical pillar of Nigeria’s economy, adding that any reform affecting port operations should be implemented in a manner that guarantees efficiency, stability and ease of doing business.
    He therefore urged the Federal Government and key agencies within the maritime and trade ecosystem to work closely with the NSW Secretariat to ensure a smooth, transparent and successful implementation of the initiative.
    Ebosele called on the Federal Government to deploy more personnel, especially industry stakeholders to the NSW secretariat as part of measures in ensuring a smooth take-off of the platform on March 27.
    The scan president urged the government to roll out broader and more robust stakeholder engagement, saying that the current level of consultation remains insufficient for a strategic project of such national importance.
    Ebosele reasserted SCAN’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote transparency, trade facilitation and sustainable growth within Nigeria’s maritime sector and the broader economy.

  • Apapa customs seeks stronger ties with Navy to boost port security

    The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, and the FOC, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, when Apapa Customs Chief paid a visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command

     

    Apapa customs seeks stronger ties with Navy to boost port security
    Lagos, February , 26, 2026The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened operational synergy with the Nigerian Navy to enhance port security and trade facilitation.
    This is contained in a statement made available to the newsmen in Lagos through the Public Relations Officer of the command, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Sulaiman on Thursday.
    The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, who paid a visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha solicited for robust synergy between them.
    Oshoba said the visit was aimed at deepening collaboration in line with the three policy thrusts of Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Dr Bashir Adeniyi.
    He said consolidation remained key to sustaining existing gains and strengthening relationships with critical stakeholders, including the Nigerian Navy.
    “On assuming duty, I resolved to consolidate on the gains already achieved and improve the existing relationship between Apapa command and the Nigerian Navy within this axis.
    “While Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, we also perform critical security functions.
    “To achieve this mandate, we must collaborate with the military, the mother of security,” he said.
    Speaking on collaboration, the CAC noted that modern border management required synergy among relevant agencies.
    On innovation, Oshoba described it as adopting new approaches to achieve better results, adding that strengthening inter-agency cooperation formed part of that strategy.
    He commended the navy for safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters, noting that maritime security was fundamental to trade.
    “No vessel can come into the country without safe waters. We commend you for keeping the maritime environment secure,” he said.
    The CAC also solicited sustained support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure seamless cargo movement and enhanced operational efficiency.
    In his response, the FOC, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, emphasised the importance of inter-agency coordination in port security.
    “Port security is about inter-agency and coordination. Without security, there is no development,” he said.
    Mustapha commended the NCS under Adeniyi’s leadership for blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets.
    “The Customs has done exceptionally well in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets.
    “Continue what you are doing; with more revenue, there will be more infrastructure and social safety network for the country,” Mustapha said.
    He assured the Apapa Area Command of improved and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain and supporting national economic growth.

  • Lilypond Command posts $858m export value growth in Q4 2025

    Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Custom Command, Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi

    Lilypond Command posts $858m export value growth in Q4 2025

     

    Lagos, Feb. 26, 2026 Lilypond Export Command (LEXC) of the Nigeria Customs Service says it recorded exports valued at $858.1 million (N1.12trillion) in the fourth quarter of 2025.The Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi, disclosed this at a news conference on Thursday in Lagos.

     

     

    Ariyibi said the figure represents an increase of $74.89 million over the $783.2 million recorded in the corresponding period of 2024, reflecting a 9.56 per cent growth rate.

     

     

    He added that the command processed 14,756 export containers during the review period, up from 11,070 containers handled in the fourth quarter of 2024, indicating a 24.26 per cent increase.

    Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Custom Command, Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi

    According to him, exports were grouped into four major categories: agricultural products, manufactured goods, solid minerals and others.

     

    Agricultural produce remained the dominant export, valued at $568.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2025, compared with $542.9 million in the same period of 2024.

     

    Exports of manufactured goods rose significantly to $240.4 million from $134.6 million recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.

     

    In contrast, solid and extractive minerals declined to $35.59 million from $87.50 million recorded in the same period of 2024. Ariyibi attributed the drop to reduced output, market volatility and operational challenges in the sector.

     

    He noted that export surcharge collections rose to N208.5 million in 2025, representing a 2.5 per cent increase from N91.9 million recorded in 2024.

     

    He explained that the surcharge is collected under the Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme as statutory fees on all legitimate goods exported from the country.

     

    The controller stated that the command is dedicated to processing containerised exports in line with the consolidation directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi.

     

    He added that the command maintains strong collaboration with partner agencies including the NDLEA, SON, NAQS, the Police and NAFDAC to ensure compliance and trade efficiency.

     

    Ariyibi said stakeholder feedback continues to affirm the command’s performance, noting that it remains a preferred hub for non-oil exports and a contributor to national economic growth.

     

    He commended the Comptroller-General for fostering an enabling environment that promotes trade facilitation, particularly in the non-oil export sector.

     

    “Lilypond Export Command now processes export documentation in less than 24 hours to encourage exports, which has helped position Nigeria as one of Africa’s leading exporting countries.

     

    “The B’Odogwu platform has significantly enhanced our operations, and we remain confident the command will record even greater successes in 2026,” Ariyibi said.

     

    He advised exporters, freight forwarders and haulage operators to remain compliant and avoid activities that contravene existing laws.

     

    Ariyibi noted that stakeholders’ compliance level stands at about 95 per cent and urged others to adhere strictly to export guidelines and refrain from trade infractions.

     

    He encouraged stakeholders to take advantage of the command’s open-door policy, continuous sensitisation programmes and guidance on export prohibition regulations to ensure proper and lawful trade processing.

     

    The controller assured stakeholders of the command’s continued support, capacity-building initiatives and commitment to facilitating legitimate exports in line with national economic objectives.

  • NSC, Navy deepen ties against maritime crime

    A group picture of management staff of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and the Noval command when the navy visited the council headquarters in Lagos on Thursday in Lagos

     

    NSC, Navy deepen ties against maritime crime
     Lagos, Feb. 26, 2026The Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC) has called for stronger operational collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to curb criminal activities within the maritime domain and enhance investor confidence in the nation’s port system.
    The Executive Secretary of the council, Dr Pius Akutah, made the appeal on Thursday when a delegation from the Western Naval Command paid a courtesy visit to the council’s headquarters in Lagos.
    Akutah noted that as the port economic regulator, the council remained deeply committed to protecting shippers’ interests while ensuring the safe and seamless movement of cargo across the country’s maritime corridors.
    The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Pius Akutah and the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, when the Naval Command visited the council headquarters in Lagos on Thursday

     

    According to him, more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s international trade was conducted through sea transport, making maritime security a critical pillar for economic stability and trade expansion, a responsibility largely managed by the Navy.
    He described the Navy as a strategic stakeholder in port operations.
    Akutah stressed for sustained collaboration between both institutions would further strengthen regulatory efficiency and cargo security across Nigerian ports.
    Akutah explained that ongoing reforms within the port system were aimed at repositioning the maritime sector through improved authorisation processes and digital transformation initiatives championed by the Federal Government.
    The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, presenting plaque to the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Pius Akutah, when the Naval Command visited the council headquarters in Lagos on Thursday
    He disclosed that the much-anticipated National Single Window (NSW) would commence full operations in March, with the council serving as a principal partner in its implementation.
    The NSC boss added that automation under the National Single Window platform would significantly enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and cargo clearance processes at Nigerian ports.
    He emphasised that regulatory reforms in the maritime industry were aligned with the Federal Government’s broader economic agenda of growing Nigeria’s economy to the one-trillion-dollar target by 2030.
    Akutah also assured the Navy of the council’s participation in activities marking the Navy’s forthcoming 70th anniversary scheduled for May 2026, reaffirming support toward achieving zero piracy within Nigerian territorial waters.
    Earlier, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, said the visit was aimed at strengthening institutional relationships capable of driving economic growth through safer maritime operations.
    The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Pius Akutah and the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, when the Naval Command visited the council headquarters in Lagos on Thursday

    Mustapha stated that the Western Naval Command, acting under directives from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, had maintained a credible and sustained naval presence at sea to deter criminal activities.
    He explained that naval operations represent an intersection between security enforcement and trade facilitation, both of which contribute directly to national economic development.
    According to him, sustained naval patrols have helped stabilize Nigeria’s maritime environment, enabling smoother trade operations and improved confidence among shipping operators.
    The FOC acknowledged the significant reduction in piracy incidents within Nigeria’s territorial waters, noting that the command would continue leveraging technology-driven intelligence and enhanced maritime domain awareness to monitor identified hotspots.
    Mustapha added that intensified surveillance and early-warning systems had strengthened the Navy’s capacity to deny criminals freedom of action within the country’s waters.
    He further solicited the partnership of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council in commemorating the Nigerian Navy’s 70 years of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime space.

  • NCS slashes Red Tape, engages American business council

    The Executive Secretary of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele,The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, during a meeting at Eko Hotel to strengthened trade ties between Nigeria and the United States following a high-level stakeholder engagement with the American Business Council (ABC)

     

    NCS slashes Red Tape, engages American business council
    Lagos, February, 13, 2026, The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced investor confidence and strengthened trade ties between Nigeria and the United States following a high-level stakeholder engagement with the American Business Council (ABC) .
    The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, mad this known in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of customs, Deputy Comptroller, Abdullahi Maiwada and make available in Lagos on Friday.
    The engagement brought together senior Customs officers, including the  executives of American companies, and key industry stakeholders to deliberate on trade facilitation, dispute resolution, regulatory reforms, and policy strategies aimed at improving Nigeria’s investment climate.
    Customs Area Controller, Tincan Island Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka
    Speaking at the forum, held at Eko Hotel, the CGC, described stakeholder engagement as a critical pillar of modern customs administration.
    Adeniyi noted that sustaining dialogue had played a key role in resolving longstanding operational challenges between the service and the private sector.
    The Chief Superintendent of Customs, Akinnyene Edeminam, Zone ‘A’  Zonal PRO, National PRO of Customs, Deputy Comptroller, Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs, PRO FOU Zone ‘A’, Husain, Chief Superintendent of Customs, PRO Tincan Island Customs Command, Oscar Ivara
    He cited the recent resolution of a seven-year classification dispute involving a council member as a clear example of the progress achieved through consistent engagement.
     “Stakeholder engagement is one of the major pillars of any modern customs administration. We have realised that when we address issues in a mutually beneficial manner, everybody becomes a winner.”
    Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Timi Bomodi, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, PhD.Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Caroline Niagwan
    He also announced the introduction of a unified dispute resolution mechanism designed to streamline procedures, reduce delays, and lower the cost of resolving trade-related conflicts.
    The NCS boss reaffirmed the service’s commitment to transparency, ongoing modernisation reforms, and the creation of a business-friendly environment capable of attracting foreign investment.
    Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Timi Bomodi
     “This engagement forms part of the Nigeria Customs Service’s broader strategy to deepen partnerships with international business communities while enhancing trade facilitation and economic growth.”
    In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, commended the NCS for maintaining open communication with the private sector and taking practical steps to address longstanding trade concerns.
    Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Babatunde Olomu
    “We are seeing positive outcomes from these engagements, including the resolution of long-standing issues affecting our members.
    “While not every concern can be resolved immediately, sustained dialogue helps balance national interests with the need for an efficient business environment,” Olele said.

     

  • WMC Customs donates sports complex to Coconut-Apapa community

    The Zonal Coordinator Zone ‘A’, Of the Nigeria Customs Service, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Muhammed Babadede, a stakeholder the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

     

    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).

    Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

    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.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, playing table tennis with community member during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

    “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.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, playing basketball with professional team during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

    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