Sports
Our Goal is a Volleyball Team That Makes CGC and Nigeria Proud – Customs Sports Secretary
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.
Sports
Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo Honored with SWAN Diamond Jubilee Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sports
Cyril Ogar
Benue-born sports administrator and philanthropist, Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for recognizing his contribution to sports development in Benue State and Nigeria at large.
Dr. Atoo, who serves as President of Flight Sports Nigeria Limited and Founder of Flight Football Club, Gboko, received the honour during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Abuja.
Speaking after receiving the prestigious award, Dr. Atoo described the recognition as a “special motivation and encouragement” to continue contributing to sports growth across the country.
“I’m very happy and honoured. This award means a lot to me because it serves as motivation and encouragement. It’s something very special and not something I take lightly,” he said.
A respected sports administrator, CEO, and humanitarian, Dr. Atoo has built a sterling reputation for his commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots sports in Benue State.
Through Flight Sports Nigeria Limited, which oversees a range of sporting disciplines including football, volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis, and para sports, he has created opportunities for young athletes to develop their potential and pursue professional careers.
Under his leadership, Flight Football Club Gboko has become a platform for discovering and grooming promising footballers who have gone on to make their mark both locally and internationally. Beyond football, his investment in volleyball, lawn tennis, para sports, and basketball has revitalized interest and participation in these disciplines within Benue and beyond.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Atoo noted that his involvement in sports began purely out of passion but has now grown into a lifelong mission.
“It all started as a passion, but over time, it has become part of me — a culture,” he stated. “This recognition only drives me to do more for the progress of our youth and the development of sports in Benue State and Nigeria.”
He also extended his appreciation to sports journalists in the state and across Nigeria for their continuous support and constructive criticism, noting that their work plays a vital role in shaping sports administration and inspiring excellence.
Looking ahead, Dr. Atoo reaffirmed his dedication to empowering young athletes and improving sports structures in the region.
> “Going forward, we’re going to achieve great things in Benue. My message to sports lovers, administrators, and players is simple — stay dedicated, keep believing, and together we can make sports a major unifying force in our state and beyond,” he concluded.
The recognition by SWAN adds to Dr. Atoo’s growing list of honours as a sports leader, CEO, and philanthropist whose initiatives continue to drive youth empowerment and sports development across multiple disciplines in Benue State and Nigeria.
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