The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has congratulated Comet Shipping Agency on their victory in the recently concluded 2024 Maritime Cup football tournament.
Comet Shipping Agencies emerged champions after defeating the Nigerian Shippers’ Council 2-1 in a thrilling final match at the Stable Sports Complex in Surulere, Lagos.
During the award ceremony held on Wednesday, 6 October 2024, at the same venue, the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by Assistant Comptroller General of Customs Nsikan Umoh, commended Comet Shipping for claiming the prestigious Maritime Cup.
ACG Umoh from Training and Doctrine Command in Gwagwalada, Abuja, commended the teams for fostering unity and displaying exemplary sportsmanship.
“Over the past weeks, we have seen exceptional performances, fierce rivalries, and commendable sportsmanship from all teams. Each organisation represented itself with pride, and the Maritime Cup has reinforced a spirit of camaraderie that brings our industry together. This is not just about the games; it’s about promoting healthy competition, building connections, and enhancing collaboration among diverse maritime agencies and operators,” she said.
Applauding Comet Shipping for its exceptional performance, ACG Umoh said, “This triumph embodies the excellence we strive for in our sector. Your achievements today will inspire others to raise the bar for maritime sportsmanship.”
Also present was Bolaji Akinola, CEO of Ships & Ports and a principal promoter of the tournament since its inception. He described the event as a vital platform for fostering team spirit within the industry.
“For 15 years, the Maritime Cup has united players from both public and private sectors in a friendly competition, creating bonds essential to the industry’s advancement. This year’s tournament showcased the resilience and commitment inherent in maritime professionals,” Akinola noted.
Comet Shipping’s Coach, Gbenga Popoola, reflected on the team’s journey to victory, acknowledging the challenges they overcame. “After a tough start, we regrouped and pushed through, proving that persistence pays off,” he said. “This win is not only a triumph for us but also a motivation to return as defending champions in 2025.”
The 2024 Maritime Football Tournament concluded on a high note, marked by unexpected outcomes and new contenders, with both Comet Shipping and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council making their debut appearances on the championship stage in the competition’s 15-year history.