The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, has expressed a strong commitment to fostering the growth of volleyball in Nigeria, recognizing its potential to engage youth, promote national development, and elevate the country’s standing on the international sporting stage. This commitment was underscored during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Comptroller General of Customs Volleyball Premier League held in Abuja, a tournament sponsored by the Nigeria Customs Service and hailed as a significant success. Adeniyi emphasized the far-reaching impact of the league, not only in showcasing the talent of young athletes but also in providing a platform for their personal growth and contributing to the overall development of the sport in Nigeria.
The 2024 Comptroller General of Customs Volleyball Premier League brought together over 1,000 participants, including approximately 600 athletes from 24 teams – 12 male and 12 female – alongside coaches, officials, and members of the volleyball federation. The tournament, held over two phases culminating at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, became a vibrant hub of sporting activity, inspiring enthusiasm amongst both participants and spectators. Adeniyi highlighted the electrifying atmosphere, praising the dedication and skill exhibited by the young athletes, and acknowledging the vital roles played by all involved in making the event a resounding success. He noted the positive reception from the audience, indicating the growing popularity of volleyball and the success of the league in captivating the public’s attention.
Beyond the thrill of competition, the Comptroller General emphasized the broader societal benefits of the league. He lauded its role in providing a constructive outlet for the energy of young people, steering them away from potential involvement in crime and toward a path of personal development through sports. The tournament served as a testament to the power of sports to unite communities, promote healthy lifestyles, and instill valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. It underscored the Customs Service’s recognition of sports as a crucial tool for youth development and national progress.
Adeniyi further emphasized the league’s strategic importance in identifying and nurturing emerging talent, highlighting its potential to bolster Nigeria’s representation on the global volleyball stage. Acknowledging the challenges faced by Nigerian volleyball teams in recent years in qualifying for major international tournaments, he expressed optimism that the Premier League represents a turning point for the sport in the country. By providing a high-quality competitive platform, the league aims to identify and develop athletes capable of competing at the highest international level, thus raising the profile of Nigerian volleyball and fostering national pride.
In a tangible demonstration of his support, the Comptroller General presented each of the 24 participating teams with two volleyballs, a gesture intended to encourage further development and training within the teams. This act of generosity symbolized the Customs Service’s commitment to investing in the future of volleyball in Nigeria, providing resources and encouragement for aspiring athletes to pursue their passion and reach their full potential. The provision of equipment directly to the teams underscored the practical support being offered to grassroots volleyball development.
The successful conclusion of the 2024 Comptroller General of Customs Volleyball Premier League marked a significant milestone for the sport in Nigeria. With a combined prize pool exceeding N24 million for both male and female winning teams, the tournament not only celebrated athletic achievement but also emphasized the growing recognition and investment in volleyball within the country. The Comptroller General’s commitment, coupled with the enthusiasm of the participants and the public, signals a bright future for volleyball in Nigeria, with the Premier League serving as a catalyst for growth and development at all levels. The tournament’s success signifies the beginning of a new era for Nigerian volleyball, fueled by a renewed focus on youth development, international competitiveness, and the transformative power of sports.
