ANLCA Prioritizes Members’ Health Status as Annual Table Tennis Tournament Gains Momentum

—Woos NIMASA, NPA, MWUN, Others to Participate for N10 Million Grand Prize

By DAPO OLAWUNI

The Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) is prioritizing the health and wellness of its members through a newly initiated annual table tennis tournament.

The event, which has already sparked interest from various maritime and customs stakeholders, aims to promote fitness, camaraderie, and relaxation at the close of a busy year 2024.

Speaking at a pre-event press conference held on Tuesday at the Not Bad Sports Arena in Egbeda Lagos, ANLCA’s National Vice President, Prince Segun Oduntan, emphasized the importance of wellness among customs agents, while extending invitations to organizations such as Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and other stakeholders to participate in the tournament which has a N10million prize tag.

He said that already, the various chapters of ANLCA in Western Zone, and the various Commands of the Nigeria Customs Service has keyed into the tournament.

“As licensed customs agents, we’re foremost in the customs brokerage industry in Nigeria.
Here in the West Zone of ANLCA, we felt it necessary to keep our members fit, not just to be dealing with work stress all the time, we have decided to set an example.
Fitness is essential, and everyone should make time for exercise,” Prince Oduntan stated

The ANLCA Vice President said the association is expecting a large turnout, with participation limited to two representatives per organization to manage logistics.

Oduntan noted, “Interest has been high, with over 15 organizations showing interest. This two-day tournament will include approximately 30 participants, totaling about 60 players. Matches will be overseen by Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) as umpires, ensuring standards are maintained.”

He assured that the tournament will foster a spirit of friendly competition with prizes for the top three winners.

According to him, the West Zone of the association has chosen to focus on table tennis this year as a way to unify members and provide a platform for relaxation outside the usual hectic business environment.

The timing of the tournament, 6th and 7th of December according to Oduntan, is ideal as it coincides with the close of the 2024 business year.

He explained, “We chose the end of the year when everyone is busy wrapping up. This timing lets us bring everyone together, stakeholders, fellow professionals, and colleagues to connect in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.
Sports have a unique way of bringing people together, helping us unwind and build camaraderie.”

Oduntan states that this table tennis initiative is a potential stepping stone to a broader, national event in coming years.

“This is just a starting point for the association, and in future years, it may expand nationally. ANLCA is represented throughout the country, but we’re pioneering this here to set an example. If others see the value, they may join in, we’re one big family,” he added.

He emphasized that obtaining forms for the tournament is free, even as invitation letters have been extended to various organizations and media houses.

Also speaking at the conference, Alhaji Femi Anifowoshe, ANLCA’s Western Zone Coordinator, echoed Oduntan’s sentiments, highlighting the event’s focus on health and social bonding.

“Why are we holding this tournament? It’s about coming together. After months of work, this gives us an opportunity to relax, bond, and build friendships,” he said.

With health concerns growing freight practitioners at Nigerian Ports, Anifowoshe underscored the importance of exercise for discovering and addressing potential health issues early.

“Health is a significant concern now. Many people don’t realize the health issues they may have, but through regular exercise, we can be more aware of our well-being. That’s why we’re organizing this tournament to encourage people to look after their health,” he explained.

He added that this first-of-its-kind tournament is intended to become an annual tradition.

“This initiative goes beyond just our jobs or the game. It’s about the well-being of Nigerians in general. Even those who exercise regularly may have underlying health issues they’re unaware of. Through this event, we’re encouraging people to take time for themselves, relax, and exercise for a healthier life. We aim to make this tournament an annual tradition to promote community and health in the future,” he said.

The proprietor of the tournament venue; Not Bad Sports Arena, Deputy Comptroller of Nigeria Customs Service Mike Ohadike (Rtd), welcomed ANLCA’s choice of his facility for the tournament.

“I would like to thank the leadership of ANLCA for choosing our facilities for this inaugural competition. I’ve just finished a game myself, and I must say I’m impressed that ANLCA found our facility suitable for this event,” he said, praising table tennis for its health benefits.

“Table tennis is a fantastic sport for staying healthy. Studies show that racket sports, like table tennis, can even extend your life by several years. Choosing this sport aligns with ANLCA’s commitment to health,” Ohadike added.

According to him, the Not Bad Sports Arena offers a range of amenities including a dedicated table tennis hall, gym, sauna, and steam baths, ensuring participants enjoy a comfortable and conducive environment.

To ensure a seamless experience, ANLCA said it has made provisions for accommodations, with a nearby hotel, offering lodging for participants and spectators.

Apart from these, Medical staff, including doctors and nurses, will also be present for health checks, making this a comprehensive event.