By Omoabake Cole
Lagos, Feb. 19, ’26 (TNZ) The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr Bashir Adeniyi, has inaugurated a sports complex for the Coconut-Apapa community in Lagos as part of Nigerian Customs’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
TheNewsZenith reports that the Western Marine Command (WMC) of the Nigeria Customs Service donated the facility as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS).
The facility, named “Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena” (WASA), is aimed at promoting youth development, discovering sporting talents and steering young people away from crime and social vices.
Inaugurating the complex on Wednesday, Adeniyi said the project reflected Customs’ commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment.
It is my pleasure to commission this sports arena constructed for our officers and members of the host community.
“Also, because of the nature of our job, we need to keep fit at all times.
“Our duties are demanding, and we must strike a balance. I encourage all officers to take physical fitness seriously,” TheNewsZenith quotes Adeniyi as saying.
He urged officers and residents, including personnel within Zone ‘A’, to maximise the use of the facility to remain physically and mentally fit.
Earlier, the Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, described the project as more than just a recreational centre.
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Ntadi said the command dedicated the sports arena to honour the Comptroller-General in recognition of his diligence, professionalism and dedication to service.
“WASA is an 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,” TheNewsZenith quotes the commander saying.
According to him, 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,” he added.
TheNewsZenith reports that the inauguration attracted community members, traders and other stakeholders.
Sporting activities, including football, basketball and table tennis, were staged to mark the event. (TNZ)
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