The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched a physical fitness programme aimed at enhancing the mental and physical wellbeing of its officers, in line with efforts to promote work-life balance and long-term health.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, disclosed this during a fitness session held at the Command on Thursday, January 29, 2026. He said the initiative aligns with the work-life balance policy of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.

According to Oshoba, the programme is designed to help officers better cope with the pressures of a demanding work environment, particularly within the high-traffic, urban setting of Apapa.

“This is to keep officers both mentally and physically fit. Considering the hustle and bustle of this city, family issues and the long hours we work, there is a need to balance work and life for longevity and good health even after service”, he said.

The CAC stressed the importance of proactive health management, noting that stress and exhaustion have previously affected personnel operating under intense conditions.

He explained that the exercise initiative was introduced to improve officers’ fitness and productivity rather than for publicity purposes.

“We are not doing this for publicity. It is meant to build up our fitness so that we can cope with our work schedule. Our work is largely mental and many of us sit for long hours, which affects our health. We need to be active and make this a personal habit”, Oshoba added.

Officers of the Command welcomed the initiative and pledged to sustain the fitness sessions both individually and collectively as part of efforts to maintain healthy lifestyles while meeting operational demands.

The programme is expected to strengthen teamwork, boost morale and enhance overall operational efficiency at the Apapa Area Command.