The 2025 Ships & Ports Maritime Cup Competition continued to live up to its reputation for excitement and fierce rivalry on Wednesday, as five-time champions, the Nigeria Customs Service, and former winners Micura Services Limited, both claimed impressive victories in their respective group matches at the NPA Sports Ground, Lagos.
Displaying the form that has made them one of the tournament’s most consistent teams, the Nigeria Customs Service defeated LTT Coastal and Marine Services with a commanding 2–0 win in Group B. The victory strengthens Customs’ position as one of the favourites to reclaim the coveted trophy, which they last lifted in 2017.
In another tightly contested encounter, 2010 champions Micura Services Limited edged past the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) with a 2–1 victory in Group A.
The match was a gripping affair from start to finish, with both sides showing flair, determination, and tactical discipline. Micura’s experience ultimately made the difference as they held off a late surge from NIWA to secure all three points.
The atmosphere at the NPA Sports Ground was electric, with the stand packed full of enthusiastic supporters cheering passionately for their teams.
The level of play and sportsmanship on display reflected the growing prestige of the Maritime Cup, which has over the years become the premier football tournament for the maritime industry in Nigeria.
Since its inception in 2009, the competition has brought together players and supporters from shipping companies, port operators, logistics firms, and maritime agencies in a spirit of camaraderie and healthy rivalry.
Wednesday’s matches offered another reminder of why the Maritime Cup remains one of the most anticipated fixtures on the maritime sector’s social calendar — blending sporting excellence with the vibrant community spirit that defines Nigeria’s maritime industry.
The tournament action continues today at the NPA Sports Ground, Surulere, Lagos, with two critical matches.
At 9am, former champions Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and ENL Consortium will battle for glory in Group B while defending champions Comet Shipping will take on Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited (ABTL) in Group A. The match will be played at 3pm.
Full match schedules and updated group standings are available on the tournament’s official website at www.maritimecup.com.
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