By| Goodluck E.Adubazi | Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has celebrated a groundbreaking achievement by Superintendent of Customs Nafisat Balogun, who has become the first female pilot in the service after earning a commercial multi-engine pilot license in the United States.
The milestone was marked at a ceremony organised by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, drawing senior officers, management staff, and colleagues who gathered to honour Balogun’s historic accomplishment in a field long dominated by men.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, retired Comptroller of Customs Captain Kuhi Mbaya, described Balogun’s journey as both inspiring and transformative. He highlighted her transition from a cabin attendant to a certified commercial pilot as a testament to determination and opportunity within the service.
“This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service,” Mbaya said, noting that her success sets a new precedent for women in the organisation.
“For the first time, we now have a female pilot in the NCS. It is important that we recognise and celebrate this milestone.”
He urged more women to pursue ambitious career paths, emphasizing that traditional barriers are being dismantled.
“The glass ceiling has been shattered. With determination and consistency, more women can achieve their dreams,” he added.
Mbaya also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for promoting gender inclusion and supporting professional development within the service.
In her remarks, Balogun expressed gratitude for the recognition and the support she received throughout her journey. She acknowledged the role of the service’s leadership and her colleagues in helping her achieve the feat.
“This journey has not been easy, but I am grateful for the encouragement and belief shown in me,” she said, pledging continued dedication to duty. “I will continue to serve with integrity, professionalism, and commitment.”
Colleagues at the event praised her resilience and discipline, describing her success as a source of inspiration for officers—particularly women—to strive for excellence and explore specialised career paths within the service.
Her achievement is widely seen as opening new opportunities and redefining possibilities within the Nigeria Customs Service.
