Nigeria Customs Service ended the opening stretch of the 3rd CGC Volleyball Premier League in Abuja on top in both the men’s and women’s competitions, with the sports administration already turning its attention toward continental involvement.
First-phase standings
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In the men’s event, Customs completed a perfect run, collecting maximum points by winning all 12 matches to finish on 36 points out of 36, while dropping only two sets across the entire phase.
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The unbeaten campaign was wrapped up in their last first-phase outing, when they beat COAS Spikers 3-0 to secure a spotless record.
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COAS Spikers finished second with 29 points, with CNS Spikers, NSCDC and Kano Pillars completing the next places in the standings.
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In the women’s division, Nigeria Customs Service also led the table, amassing 34 points even as they absorbed their first loss of the season.
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That setback came against COAS Spikers, who overturned a two-set advantage to win 3-2.
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COAS Spikers ended just one point behind on 33, while NSCDC took third on 31 points, followed by VIP and CNS Spikers.
Officials cite backing behind the results
Nigeria Customs Service Sports Secretary Samuel Onikeku linked the performances to the support provided by Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and the wider Customs leadership.
“Their investment in our teams is something that we are proud of. The players have no choice but to show gratitude through their performances. We are happy that the men’s team has gone unbeaten, while the ladies are also topping the league,” Onikeku said.
Focus shifts to Africa
With the league progressing into its next stage, Onikeku said the immediate priority is preparing for Africa.
“The task the CGC has given us is to start preparing for Africa. We will address the areas that need improvement, provide the equipment and support the players require, and ensure they have everything necessary to perform at their best,” he added.
Youth tournament praised alongside senior league
Onikeku also highlighted the youth volleyball championship running alongside the senior competition, describing it as a valuable corporate social responsibility initiative and praising the subsidies that help teams and players take part.
With the first phase concluded, both the men’s and women’s standings remain tightly contested ahead of the decisive second phase of the championship.
