Customs athletes shine as OSOM Games promotes Unity, national service
Omeiza Bilal
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) demonstrated resilience, discipline, and teamwork at the just-concluded 6th edition of the One Service One Medal (OSOM) Games, which wrapped up with a vibrant closing ceremony on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The week-long inter-agency sports fiesta, which brought together Nigeria’s military and paramilitary services, was a celebration of national unity and athletic prowess. Customs athletes held their own across several disciplines, showcasing the Service’s commitment to physical fitness and esprit de corps.
From track events to team sports, NCS athletes were a formidable presence, earning medals and accolades while embodying the values of discipline and excellence the Service is known for. The highlight of the closing day included spirited performances in the 4x100m and 4x400m relay races, where the Customs relay teams delivered commendable showings amidst stiff competition.
The event opened with a ceremonial parade led by DSP Aminu Shehu, featuring dignitaries from various agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police, NSCDC, Correctional Service, FRSC, EFCC, and representatives from the Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Commission. The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, received the salute and later declared the Games closed.
In his address, Mallam Dikko praised the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie, stating:
“We are all winners, whether or not we walk away with medals. These Games symbolize the strength of our institutions and the power of unity.”
The Most Valuable Player (MVP) award was claimed by Corporal Dorcas Aworo of the Nigerian Police, who clinched 9 gold and 1 silver medal in swimming.
Mallam Shehu Dikko stated that OSOM Games remain a critical platform for fostering inter-agency collaboration and promoting a shared identity among Nigeria’s uniformed services. For the Nigeria Customs Service, the Games also reinforce the value of fitness and morale in enhancing operational efficiency and national service delivery.
As the curtains fall on this year’s edition, the Nigeria Customs Service celebrates its athletes for representing the Service with pride and promises to build on this momentum ahead of future editions.
