Customs Boss, Adeniyi Commissions Apapa-Lagos Sports Arena

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

The Western Marine Command (WMC) of the Nigeria Customs Service which has witnessed a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Comptroller Patrick Ntandi, peaked Wednesday, February 11, 2026, culminating in the commissioning of the Coconut–Apapa Sports Arena by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

To say that the commissioning of the Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena (WASA), named after the CGC is a vision accomplished is to put it mildly. Shortly after assuming duty, Comptroller Ntandi embarked on an extraordinary drive to refit the Command’s premises and its immediate environment. What was once a neglected and congested space has been reborn into a smart, secure, and beautiful, work environment.

Speaking at the commissioning, CGC Adeniyi praised Ntandi’s vision which he said underscored the importance of fitness and wellbeing officers and men, and the wider host community.

“This arena is more than just a sporting facility; it is a symbol of renewal, discipline, and the wellbeing of our officers. Comptroller Ntandi has shown that leadership is not only about enforcement but also about the personal fitness of officers and men.”

“It is therefore my pleasure to be here to commission the sports arena, which is provided for officers and men of the Western Marine Command. As usual, when we provide this kind of facility, we also have stakeholders and members of the community where we serve, in mind. Because of the nature of our job, we really need to keep fit all the time. It is necessary we maintain the right balance; this is why we encourage all officers to do this. I do mine each time I have the time in Abuja. This is why we encourage all our officers to remain physically and mentally fit.

“So, it is built for us to utilize, and I encourage officers and men, even those serving in other commands such as KLT, PTML, Tin Can and Apapa, to embrace the use of the facility here so that we will remain physically and mentally fit”, he admonished.

Urging host community stakeholders to treat the facility with the value it deserves, the CGC said, “We trust that it will be protected, properly utilized, and maintained. We call on community leaders, parents, youth groups, and relevant stakeholders to take ownership of this project and ensure that it serves the purpose for which it was established.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the flagship marine command boss eulogized the CGC’s leadership example which he said took firm root whilst he served as the service’s spokesman; the longest to date.

“The presence of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, whose leadership, vision, and commitment to people-centered policing and community engagement continue to inspire meaningful initiatives across the Service, underscores the importance the Nigeria Customs Service places on community development, youth empowerment, and sustainable peace.

“We sincerely appreciate your unwavering support for projects that go beyond enforcement to touch lives positively, which shows that Customs Cares. This event is not only about unveiling of a sports facility, it is about purpose. It is about people. And it is about preserving a legacy of service, discipline, and commitment to the Nation.”

Explaining why the command named the sports arena after the CGC, Comptroller Ntandi said, “Wale Adeniyi, former National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, is a man of uncommon diligence, professionalism, and dedication to duty. His approach was very grass rooted. In his service to Customs and to Nigeria as National PRO, he exemplified integrity, hard work, and loyalty. Naming this facility after him is our way of saying that exemplary service should never be forgotten, and positive role models must continue to inspire the next generation.”

Speaking further, Ntandi said: “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.”

“WASA is aimed at taking our youths off the streets and into constructive engagement. Sports teach discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience, and respect for rules; the same values that guide us as Officers of the Nigeria Customs Service. By creating this arena, we are opening doors of opportunity for young people to discover their talents, channel their energy productively, and build hope for a better tomorrow”, he declared.

All stakeholders present including royalties, community and youth leaders were of the consensus that the commissioning of the facility marks a significant step in balancing enforcement with welfare, discipline with compassion, and vision with execution.

Concluding his remarks on that note, Ntandi said, “As we commission this sports arena today, may it become a center of unity, growth, and positive transformation. May it nurture talents, inspire dreams, and keep our youths away from negative influences. And may the legacy of Wale Adeniyi continue to remind us that diligence, dedication, and selfless service to the nation will always be honored.

The highpoint of the event was a short football match between the CGC led team and Olodi-Apapa Club, where the CGC scored the lone goal within minutes of the kick off. Apart from the soccer pitch, other sports available in the facility includes basket ball court and a table tennis court.

Other dignitaries present at the event include top officers of the Nigerian Immigration Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Navy, the leadership of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, etc. Also on ground was the NCS Medical Corps who attended to those desirable of medical services including the offering of free medical tests and advise.