By Wale Joseph
The Comptroller-General, Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has pledged strong support for the National Sports Commission’s athletes’ training grant programme as Nigeria steps up preparations ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games, reports thegazellenews.com
The intervention is aimed at boosting the readiness of elite athletes ahead of major international competitions.
Two weeks ago, 26 top athletes across various sports received grants running into millions of naira under the initiative. The funding is designed to enhance access to quality coaching, improved nutrition, modern training equipment, and increased exposure to competitive events.
The National Sports Commission described the backing from the Customs Service as timely, noting that many athletes are entering the critical phase of their build-up to global championships. The grants are expected to ease financial burdens that often limit optimal preparation and allow beneficiaries to focus fully on training and performance.
Beyond institutional backing, Adeniyi is widely recognised for his active involvement in sports administration.
He also serves as President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, where he has consistently championed structured funding, grassroots development, and athlete welfare.
His commitment to sports development was further demonstrated this week with the commissioning of the Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena in Ibafon, Lagos.
The facility, delivered as part of the Nigeria Customs Service’s Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, was officially inaugurated by the Comptroller-General.
The arena is expected to function as a community hub for talent discovery, youth engagement, and grassroots sports development, highlighting the Service’s expanding contribution to national growth beyond its statutory responsibilities.
