By Bon Peters
LAGOS/Nigeria: The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Professional Wrestling Federation (NPWF) to advance youth development and grassroots sports across the country.
The announcement was contained in a press release issued on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Oscar Ivara, at the Command headquarters in Lagos.
According to the statement, the Tincan Island Port Command hosted the leadership of the NPWF, led by the Federation’s National President, Chief John Uche. The delegation was received by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration in sports and youth empowerment initiatives.
Chief Uche informed the Customs officials about the upcoming African International Wrestling Championship, scheduled for October 18 to 19, 2025, at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Anambra State. The event is expected to feature wrestling legends and emerging talents from Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and several African nations.
He explained that the championship aims to showcase Nigeria’s wrestling potentials while providing a platform to empower over 100 Nigerian youths through grassroots development programs. He added that the broader objectives of the Federation include addressing youth restiveness, reducing poverty, and creating sustainable employment opportunities through sporting events.
Comptroller Onyeka commended the Federation for recognizing the NCS as a strategic partner in promoting local sports. He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to youth development and grassroots sports under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PSC.
“The Nigeria Customs Service has consistently supported sporting initiatives nationwide and will continue to collaborate with stakeholders committed to national development through sports,” Onyeka said.
The visit also featured the unveiling and formal presentation of the championship trophy to the Customs Area Controller, alongside an award of excellence from the NPWF leadership, symbolizing the partnership and shared commitment to the success of the tournament.
