Joel Ajayi
The Sports Secretary of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Samuel Onikeku, has expressed the Service’s renewed commitment to building a formidable male volleyball team capable of making the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), the Service, and the nation proud on both local and international stages.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the conclusion of a 10-day open screening exercise for over 51 aspiring players, Onikeku announced that 18 athletes have now been selected to form the new-look male volleyball team.
“Many people are not aware that our CGC is an active sportsman. He plays both volleyball and table tennis very well and has a genuine passion for sports,” Onikeku said.
“His deep understanding of volleyball — from coaching to strategy — means he takes a special interest in the team. He gives us full support: financial, moral, and spiritual. That’s why we are determined to deliver results and make him proud.”
He noted that while the Nigeria Customs female volleyball team has reached the finals of the Club Championship on seven occasions, the male team has yet to break into the top ranks, having only reached the round of 16.
“This is the turning point,” Onikeku added. “We want to be among the top 18 teams in Africa and go beyond what we’ve done before. We are laying a solid foundation for the future, and this is only the beginning.”
He also disclosed that the CGC personally visited the screening exercise to observe the team’s progress and provided valuable insights that are already being implemented by the technical crew.
“Despite his demanding schedule, the CGC found time to come and see the players. He was impressed and shared some observations that we’ve since incorporated into our preparations. His input goes beyond administration — he’s someone who truly understands sports and leads by example,” he said.
Also sharing his thoughts was the newly appointed team captain, Philip Ayobami, who described the screening period as rigorous but rewarding.
“These past 10 days have been all about dedication, hard work, and team bonding. We are fully prepared for the upcoming season,” Ayobami said.
He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the team and promised to give his all.
“Being named captain of the Nigeria Customs volleyball team — one of the top volleyball teams in Nigeria — is a great honor. I’m humbled and excited, and I’m ready to give 100% to this responsibility.”
Ayobami also sent a strong message to fans and supporters, vowing that the team is ready to restore the Customs team’s dominance in Nigerian volleyball.
“We are coming back stronger. From grass to glory, we’re determined to take back our rightful place and win the championship for the CGC and the entire Nigeria Customs Service,” he declared.
