By Ajibola Adedoye
In a remarkable show of collaboration between sports and national service, the Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has pledged its support for the Nigerian Professional Wrestling Federation (NPWF) ahead of the African International Wrestling Championship scheduled to hold from October 18 to 19, 2025, at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, Anambra State.
The NPWF delegation, led by its National President, Chief John Uche, paid a courtesy visit to the Command’s headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, where they were warmly received by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka.
Chief Uche disclosed that the international wrestling championship will feature renowned wrestling icons and emerging talents from Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and several African nations. He noted that the event aims not only to showcase Nigeria’s untapped sporting potential but also to serve as a platform for empowering over 100 Nigerian youths through grassroots sports initiatives and professional mentorship.
“The Federation is committed to using wrestling as a tool to curb youth restiveness, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable livelihoods,” Uche stated. “We see sports as a bridge between empowerment and national unity.”
Responding, Comptroller Frank Onyeka commended the Federation’s efforts to promote indigenous sporting talent and grassroots development, emphasizing that the Nigeria Customs Service remains a strong advocate for youth empowerment through sports.
He reiterated that the Service, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, psc (+), has consistently supported initiatives that foster community engagement and national cohesion.
“Customs will continue to partner with credible organizations like NPWF to advance youth empowerment, peace, and sports development,” Onyeka affirmed. “This championship aligns with our shared vision of building a healthier, more productive generation.”
The visit culminated in the unveiling of the official championship trophy and the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Comptroller Onyeka by the NPWF leadership, symbolizing a partnership anchored on mutual respect and a shared goal of advancing Nigeria’s sports and youth development agenda.
The forthcoming African International Wrestling Championship is expected to attract thousands of spectators, promote sports tourism, and position Nigeria as a leading hub for professional wrestling on the continent.
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