Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has called for better utilisation of community sports facilities in Apapa as part of efforts to promote public wellness, youth development and safer communities.
Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi made the call 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 such facilities, citing the Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena.
Ntadi said increased use of the facility 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 critical role in community development by providing productive engagement for young people and improving social cohesion.
“The facility is open to members of the public. If properly utilised, it can help produce sporting champions and keep children away from the streets,” he said.
He said the transformation of the Apapa/Mile 2 axis had improved security and created a more conducive environment for businesses and residents.
Ntadi noted that efforts to rid the area of criminal elements had enabled people to move freely and carry out economic activities without fear.
He attributed some of the interventions to the Customs Cares initiative of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, which seeks to strengthen relations between the service and host communities.
According to him, the initiative has supported social projects across the country, including school renovations and educational infrastructure.
Speaking on the impact of the interventions, the Zonal Coordinator of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Lagos Industrial District, Mr Oluwole Egbaye, said insecurity had previously hampered operations in the area.
Egbaye, in company of Mr Dennis Unukefe, also a zonal coordinator, said workers, particularly those operating at night, were often exposed to attacks by hoodlums before recent security improvements.
According to him, the improved environment has enhanced safety and made the area more suitable for commercial and recreational activities.
Also, the Baale of Ebute-Ibafon, Chief Saheed Balogun, said improved security in the community had boosted business activities and enhanced residents’ quality of life.
He commended security agencies and stakeholders for restoring order in the area and sustaining development initiatives.
