The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and newly elected President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has donated a brand-new bus to the Federation to support the smooth movement and logistics of athletes.

Dr. Adeniyi made the donation on Saturday during his visit to the national wrestling team’s camp at Package B of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, where the athletes are currently fine-tuning preparations for the forthcoming Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia.

Presenting the keys of the new vehicle to the Federation’s Secretary, the NWF President described the gesture as his first official assignment since assuming office. He explained that the move reflects his commitment to enhancing athletes’ welfare and strengthening support systems for the national team.

Dr. Adeniyi recalled that the decision to provide the bus was inspired by a tragic road accident involving the team last year while returning from a tournament in Bayelsa — an incident that claimed lives and rendered the Federation’s vehicle beyond repair.

“Since that incident, I made up my mind to replace the vehicle to ease the Federation’s transportation challenges,” he said.

 “This bus is a token of appreciation for the sacrifices of our athletes and a step towards improving their welfare.”

During the visit, the NWF President also interacted with the wrestlers and coaching crew, commending their commitment, discipline, and readiness ahead of the Games. He emphasized the importance of integrity and fair play, urging them to uphold Nigeria’s image with pride and honesty.

“We do not want to achieve glory through foul means,” he stressed. “My charge to you is simple — go out there, compete clean, and win clean. I would prefer a disciplined athlete to an indisciplined winner.”

Dr. Adeniyi expressed confidence in the bright future of Nigerian wrestling, highlighting the emergence of young, vibrant talents ready to succeed champions like Blessing Oborududu and Mercy Genesis.

He assured that under his leadership, the Federation would prioritize athlete welfare, career development, and post-retirement support, adding that plans are underway to help wrestlers transition into coaching, officiating, administration, or sports media after active competition.

“We will be bold and intentional about improving athletes’ welfare,” he pledged. “We want to help them transition into other areas of the sport because we value their contributions and believe in their potential.”

The NWF boss also revealed plans to extend similar corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to other sports bodies, including the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), reaffirming his belief in sports as a tool for youth empowerment and national development.

He concluded by encouraging the wrestlers to stay focused and disciplined as they prepare for international competition.

“Soar high, compete clean, and make Nigeria proud — both on and off the mat,” he said.