As the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) gears up to host the prestigious CAVB 2025 Women’s African Club Volleyball Championship in April, a moment of historic significance unfolded on March 14, 2025. The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was officially named Grand Patron of the championship in recognition of her unwavering support for women’s empowerment.
This announcement was made by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, during a visit to the First Lady at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja. His gesture underscored a deep-rooted commitment to advancing women’s roles in sports and leadership, not only within Customs but across national development.
Reflecting on this journey, the Customs Service has long been a key player in promoting female sports, with its volleyball team dominating national and regional competitions, including victories in the 2018, 2022, and 2024 Volleyball Premier League and the Confederation of Africa Zone 3 Championships in 2018 and 2019. However, this latest move signifies more than just athletic achievements—it reinforces the Service’s broader commitment to gender inclusion in governance and professional spaces.
The announcement also rekindled memories of the February 17, 2025, commendation by Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, celebrating Customs’ efforts in securing the hosting rights for the championship. This milestone was seen as a defining moment for Nigerian sports, positioning the country as a leading force in African women’s volleyball.
A Reflection on Women’s Leadership and Inclusion
Beyond sports, CGC Adeniyi has consistently championed women’s representation in Customs leadership, strategically appointing female officers to key divisions such as Excise & Free Trade Zones, Tariff & Trade, and ICT/Modernization. The inclusion of women in corporate social responsibility projects, the Single Window Initiative, and the Authorized Economic Operator Programme reflects a deliberate effort to modernize Customs operations through gender diversity.
During his address, Adeniyi paid tribute to the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative, acknowledging its transformative impact on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for women and youth. He emphasized how Senator Tinubu’s leadership has inspired institutional reforms across various sectors, including Customs.
“Your Excellency, in recognition of your exemplary leadership and advocacy for women’s advancement, we humbly request that you honor us as the Grand Patron of this historic tournament. Your presence will elevate the significance of this event and inspire our athletes to excel.” – CGC Adeniyi
Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s acceptance of this role was not just ceremonial—it was a call to action. Reflecting on the need for women to step forward and claim their rightful place in society, she urged Nigerian female athletes excelling on the global stage, including Tobi Amusan and other sports icons, to return home and mentor the next generation of female athletes.
“There is always space for women, and no one is stopping us from achieving greatness. We must work harder, support one another, and inspire those coming after us. When God gives you a platform, you are standing for millions of other women.” – First Lady Oluremi Tinubu
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to April 1-14, 2025 begins, Nigeria stands at the forefront of a defining moment in African women’s sports. With the First Lady’s leadership and Customs’ unwavering commitment to gender empowerment, this tournament is set to leave a lasting legacy—one that extends far beyond the volleyball court.
In the grander scheme, this initiative serves as a powerful reminder that institutional reforms, sports development, and national progress are deeply intertwined. By fostering gender inclusivity in both leadership and athletics, the Nigeria Customs Service, under CGC Adeniyi’s stewardship, is not only shaping the future of sports but also redefining the role of women in national development.
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