Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has called for better utilization of community sports facilities in Apapa to promote public wellness, youth development, and safer communities.
Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, Western Marine Command, and Assistant Customs Controller made the appeal on Wednesday in Lagos during a courtesy visit and award presentation by the Maintenance Unit of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Ibafo Branch.
He urged residents to take advantage of facilities like the Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena. Ntadi explained that increased use by children, adults, and business owners would encourage healthy living, nurture sporting talents, and discourage youth involvement in crime.
According to him, sports infrastructure plays a vital role in community development by providing productive engagement and fostering social cohesion.
“The facility is open to the public. If properly utilized, it can produce sporting champions and keep children off the streets,” he said.
He also noted that the transformation of the Apapa/Mile 2 axis has improved security and created a more conducive environment for businesses and residents.
Efforts to rid the area of criminal elements have enabled free movement and economic activity.
He attributed some improvements to the Customs Cares initiative of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, which aims to strengthen relations between Customs and host communities.
The initiative has supported various social projects nationwide, including school renovations and educational infrastructure.
Speaking on the impact, MWUN Lagos Industrial District Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Oluwole Egbaye, said insecurity had previously hampered operations in the area.
Alongside Mr. Dennis Unukefe, a zonal coordinator, Egbaye explained that workers, especially those working at night, faced attacks by hoodlums before recent security improvements.
He added that the safer environment had enhanced safety and made the area more suitable for business and recreation.
The Baale of Ebute-Ibafon, Chief Saheed Balogun, also noted that improved security had boosted business activities and residents’ quality of life.
He commended security agencies and stakeholders for restoring order and sustaining development efforts.
