Sports
Nigeria Customs clinches gold at 2024 National Beach Volleyball Star Tour
… men’s team wins 2nd position
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) women’s beach volleyball team has emerged victorious at the 2024 National Beach Volleyball Star Tour, held in Bauchi.
The NCS women’s team, led by captain Tochukwu Nnoruga, triumphed in an intense final match at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, overcoming the Kada Emeralds 2-1 in a gripping contest.
The final scoreline of 19-21, 25-23, 15-9 reflected the determination and resilience of the Customs team, who were unbeaten throughout both the first and second phases of the Star Tour.
Despite losing the opening set 19-21, Tochukwu Nnoruga and her partner, Francesca Ikihide, displayed remarkable teamwork and grit to recover, taking the next two sets in thrilling fashion to clinch the championship.
In a post-match interview, Samuel Onikeku, the Sports Secretary of the Nigeria Customs Service, expressed his pride in the team’s performance and highlighted the significant role played by the leadership of the NCS in their success.
“This victory is not just a reflection of the hard work and skill of the players, but also the continuous support we’ve received from our leadership. We are very proud of our women’s team, who have shown exceptional resilience and teamwork,” Onikeku stated.
Onikeku also extended gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for his consistent backing of the team as well as dedicating the trophy to the CG and his management.
“We owe a great deal of this success to the leadership of the Comptroller General, who has been a pillar of support for the team. His commitment to ensuring the growth and development of sports within the Nigeria Customs Service has been invaluable,” he added.
The victory not only solidifies the NCS women’s team’s dominance in the competition but also signals the growing prominence of beach volleyball in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the NCS men’s team also delivered an impressive performance, finishing second in the Star Tour.
Though they were narrowly edged out in the final standings, their efforts were commendable, and they remain a team to watch in future tournaments.
Onikeku said the victory serves as an important milestone in preparation for the final phase of the Nigeria Volleyball Premier League, where the NCS teams, both men’s and women’s, are expected to compete for more trophies.
“This triumph in the Star Tour is just the beginning. It’s part of our broader preparation for the upcoming phase of the Nigeria Volleyball Premier League, where we are aiming for even greater success and more trophies,” Onikeku emphasized.
Sports
Governor Dapo Abiodun Has Reawakened the Sleeping Giant in Sports in Ogun State, Says Hon. Bukola Olopade
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has stated that Ogun State is witnessing a transformative era in sports development under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, as the state prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed “Ogun 2024.”
Speaking about the governor’s achievements, Hon. Olopade stated, “Even before the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was constituted, when Nilayo Sports Management bidded on behalf of Ogun State, it was evident Ogun was ready. During recent inspections, technical directors from various states applauded the facilities they saw. It was gratifying to know Ogun State’s readiness was evident.”
Reflecting on past challenges, the former commissioner for sports in Ogun, said the legacy he left after office was destroyed and sports looked doomed “until Governor Dapo Abiodun started reawakening the sleeping giant in sports.”
Governor Abiodun’s administration has prioritized youth empowerment through sports, focusing on grassroots promotion, infrastructure development and talent development. His vision for sports transcends mere entertainment, aiming to build an industry that empowers the youth and attracts investments to Ogun State.
Preparations for the National Sports Festival have been ongoing in the State, with massive renovations and constructions across the state. The MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta has seen its VIP section upgraded, the football pitch replaced, tracks have undergone refurbishment, and a brand-new swimming pool is being constructed.
Two state-of-the-art tennis courts and handball courts have been built to reduce reliance on the Abeokuta Sports Club facilities, while the Alake Sports Complex, Ijeja, Abeokuta has been undergoing comprehensive renovation.
Hon. Olopade emphasized the governor’s commitment to sustaining and advancing Ogun State’s sporting legacy. “Governor Abiodun’s investments in sports and youth empowerment are unparalleled. His administration has a clear vision to turn sports into a thriving industry, and the successful bid to host Ogun 2024 is a testament to his dedication.”
With the festival drawing closer, Ogun State’s commitment to excellence is evident. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s efforts have not only revived sports in the state but also laid the foundation for a lasting legacy that will benefit generations to come.
Gateway Games 2024 has promises written all over it, to be a landmark event, showcasing the state’s readiness and Governor Abiodun’s transformative impact on sports development.
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