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Adeniyi Says Customs Zone A Games Reflect Commitment To Wellness, Teamwork, Innovation
By Prince Benson Davies
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has said the 2026 Zone A Inter-Command Games demonstrate the Service’s focus on consolidation, collaboration and innovation.
Adeniyi spoke at the grand finale of the three-week competition held at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, Lagos. The games were held under the theme “Fit to Serve, United to Lead” and featured officers from various commands in Zone A competing in football, volleyball and other sports.
The CG said the successful organisation of the event showed the importance of strategic planning and teamwork within the Service. He added that the games also support management’s drive to promote healthy work-life balance among officers and men.
According to him, the large turnout and colourful activities at the closing ceremony were proof of careful planning and commitment by the organisers.
Adeniyi, however, expressed concern over the state of sporting facilities at the Ikeja training college. He noted that the infrastructure has seen little improvement since he graduated from the institution decades ago.
He said the Service requires modern sporting facilities to match its growing participation in national competitions. The CG disclosed that plans are underway to upgrade facilities at the Ikeja college. He also said a modern sports complex is being developed at the new Customs Training College site in Iperu, Ogun State.
He identified discipline, teamwork and effective strategy as key lessons from the games, and commended the Zonal Coordinator, Customs Zone A, ACG Mohammed Babandede, the chairman of the organising committee, Comptroller Chidi Okorie, and other officers for their efforts.
Earlier, Babandede said the competition provided officers an opportunity to relax, improve fitness and strengthen bonds within the Customs family. He attributed the success of the games to the dedication of officers across commands.
The chairman of the organising committee called for the expansion of the games to other zones, stressing that a healthy workforce is critical to effective service delivery.
The football final was a major highlight, with the Customs Training College defeating the Murtala Muhammed Airport Area Command to lift the trophy. Winners in other categories also received trophies and prizes at the closing ceremony.
