Customs Teams Strengthen Title Credentials as First Phase of 3rd CGC Volleyball Premier League Nears Climax

By Eyere Ekuta 

CNS Spikers, the reigning champions, had entered the match with renewed confidence after recently ending the unbeaten run of COAS Spikers, one of the most consistent sides in the league. They also carried the psychological advantage of having edged Customs to the title during the first and second seasons of the competition.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) men's and women's volleyball teams continued their impressive campaign at the ongoing 3rd Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Volleyball Premier League in Abuja, recording crucial victories on Day 11 to reinforce their championship ambitions as the first phase of the league approaches its conclusion.

The headline fixture of the day saw the NCS men's team produce a remarkable comeback to defeat defending champions CNS Spikers 3-1 (21-25, 25-22, 25-19, 25-15) in a contest that lived up to its billing between two of Nigeria's volleyball heavyweights.

While Customs men’s team celebrated one of the biggest victories of the competition so far, their women's team also maintained their impressive form with a commanding straight-set victory over Olalomi Royal Angels, winning 25-18, 25-22, 25-7.

The reigning women's champions once again showcased why they remain favourites to retain their crown, combining powerful attacking play with excellent court coverage and defensive organization.

The results not only strengthened Customs' position in the standings but also sent a strong message to their title rivals ahead of the second phase.

Speaking after the victory, the Customs Sports Secretary, Superintendent of Customs Samuel Onikeku, credited the team's performance to strategic planning and sustained investment by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and the Service management.

According to him, 

"We have invested heavily in this team, starting with our coaches. We sent them abroad for advanced certification programmes and exposed our players to major competitions, including tournaments in Kigali and Zone 3 events. What we are seeing today is the result of deliberate planning and investment," Onikeku said.

He added that the Service's objective extends beyond domestic success.

"Our goal is to conquer Africa. We are building a team that can compete at continental level, and every phase of this league is part of that journey."

Other games on Day 11 saw, COAS Spikers defeated Sunshine Spikers 3-0, Defence Spikers overcame Offa VC in straight sets, UCEM beat Ajase Ipo 3-0, Kano Pillars edged Nigeria Correctional Service in a five-set thriller, while NSCDC defeated Nigeria Police Force 3-0.

In the women's category, CNS Spikers swept past Kada Emeralds 3-0, NSCDC defeated Anambra Queens 3-0, NAF Rockets beat Vipers Spikers 3-0, COAS Spikers overcame Fire Service 3-0, while Lifecamp Volleyball Club edged Benue Queens in a dramatic five-set encounter.

With Phase One entering its decisive stage, both Nigeria Customs Service teams remain firmly in contention. The men have demonstrated their ability to challenge and defeat the league's elite, while the women continue to set the benchmark in the competition.

For the defending champions CNS Spikers, the defeat serves as a reminder that the title race remains wide open. Having already proven their quality by ending COAS Spikers' unbeaten streak earlier in the competition, the naval side remains one of the strongest contenders for the championship.

As the race for valuable points intensifies, the battle for supremacy in Nigerian volleyball promises even more drama before the first phase concludes in Abuja.