Sports Development: Customs Hosts Wrestling Federation To Boost Youth Empowerment

Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) hosted the leadership of the Nigerian Professional Wrestling Federation (NPWF) , to promote sports and youth empowerment in Nigeria, according to CSC Oscar Ivara, Public Relations Officer for the Tin Can Island Port Command, Apapa-Lagos.

The delegation, led by the NPWF National President Chief John Uche, was warmly received by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, at the Command Headquarters in Lagos.

The visit aimed to formally inform the Command about the upcoming African International Wrestling Championship scheduled for October 18-19, 2025, at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Anambra State.

Chief Uche revealed that the international event will bring together wrestling legends and emerging talents from Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and several African countries. He emphasized that the championship seeks to showcase Nigeria’s untapped wrestling potential and empower over 100 Nigerian youths through grassroots development programs.

He also highlighted the Federation’s broader goals of addressing youth restiveness, alleviating poverty, and creating sustainable employment opportunities through sporting events.

In response, Comptroller Onyeka praised the Federation’s dedication to promoting local sports and acknowledged the Nigeria Customs Service as a key strategic partner. He affirmed the Service’s steadfast commitment to youth development and grassroots sports promotion under the leadership of Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, psc (+).

Comptroller Onyeka noted that the Customs Service has consistently supported numerous sporting initiatives nationwide and remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders who advance national development through sports.

The visit’s highlight was the unveiling and formal presentation of the championship trophy and an award of excellence to the Customs Area Controller by the NPWF leadership, symbolizing their partnership and mutual dedication to the tournament’s success.