TCIP Customs Partners Wrestling Federation to Boost Youth Empowerment, Sports Development
Nifemi Coker
The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has pledged its support for the Nigerian Professional Wrestling Federation (NPWF) ahead of the forthcoming African International Wrestling Championship, scheduled to hold from October 18 to 19, 2025, at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, Anambra State.
During a courtesy visit to the Command Headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, the leadership of the NPWF, led by its National President, Chief John Uche, briefed the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, on the Federation’s plans for the championship and its broader goals of youth empowerment through sports.
Chief Uche explained that the international tournament would feature wrestling legends and emerging talents from Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and several African countries.
According to him, the championship aims to showcase Nigeria’s untapped wrestling potential while providing a platform to empower over 100 Nigerian youths through grassroots development programmes.
“The Federation’s broader objectives include curbing youth restiveness, reducing poverty, and creating sustainable job opportunities through sporting events,” Uche said. He noted that beyond entertainment, wrestling can serve as a tool for social reformation and national unity.
Responding, Comptroller Frank Onyeka commended the Federation’s initiative and lauded its commitment to promoting indigenous sports and youth development.
He described the collaboration as a welcome effort that aligns with the Nigeria Customs Service’s support for community-focused initiatives.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains unwavering in its commitment to youth development and grassroots sports promotion under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR,” Onyeka stated.
He recalled that the Service has consistently partnered with various stakeholders to advance sporting activities across the country, adding that such collaborations contribute to national cohesion and provide viable opportunities for young Nigerians.
The highlight of the visit was the formal presentation of the championship trophy and an award of excellence to Comptroller Onyeka by the NPWF leadership. The gesture, according to the Federation, symbolized partnership and mutual commitment to the success of the upcoming tournament.
The visit, observers noted, underscored the growing synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service and civil society organizations in advancing youth empowerment through sports and community engagement.
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