The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) delivered one of the biggest upsets of the 3rd CGC Volleyball Premier League in Abuja, defeating defending champions CNS Spikers 3-1 to strengthen their title ambitions and reshape the race for top honours.
Customs recovered from a first-set defeat to secure a hard-fought victory, winning 21-25, 25-22, 25-19 and 25-15 in a crucial Day 11 encounter that underlined the team’s growing championship credentials.
The victory highlighted the increasing competitiveness of the league and demonstrated the impact of sustained investment and technical development within the Nigeria Customs Service volleyball programme.
Director of Sports of the Nigeria Customs Service, Samuel Onikeku, attributed the victory to strategic planning, management support and long-term investment in the team.
“We are very happy with this result and the performance of the team. First, I must congratulate the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management for their unwavering support,” Onikeku said.
He explained that the Service had focused on strengthening its technical crew and improving player development.
“We have invested heavily in this team, starting with our coaches. Last year, we began a development programme that saw our coaches travel abroad for Level Two certification courses. These preparations are part of our long-term vision,” he said.
Onikeku said the Service was targeting continental success beyond domestic competitions.
“Our goal is clear—we want to conquer Africa, and this is part of that journey. We are pushing hard and will not underestimate any opponent. We want to gather enough points in this phase to make the second phase easier for us,” he added.
He noted that participation in regional competitions and targeted player recruitment had strengthened the squad.
“We took the team to Zone Three competitions and also to Kigali for exposure and preparation, and what you are seeing now is the result of that investment. We also strengthened the team with quality additions, bringing in players who can solve specific problems,” he said.
The result emerged as the highlight of an action-packed round of fixtures across Days 10 and 11, with several teams battling for crucial points in both the men’s and women’s categories.
In the men’s competition, NSCDC defeated Nigeria Police Force 3-0, while COAS Spikers, Kano Pillars and Defence Spikers also recorded important victories. In the women’s category, Nigeria Customs Service maintained their impressive form with a dominant 3-0 victory over Olalomi Royal Angels, while NSCDC, NAF Rockets and COAS Spikers also secured wins.
The latest results have intensified the battle for qualification and title contention as teams prepare for the next phase of the competition.
Customs’ comeback victory over the defending champions has now emerged as one of the defining moments of the tournament, sending a strong message to rivals that the Service is ready to challenge for the CGC Volleyball Premier League title.
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