By Tunde Ojudun
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked a historic milestone with the celebration of Superintendent Nafisat Balogun, who has become the first female officer in the Service to obtain a commercial multi‑engine pilot license in the United States.
The ceremony, hosted by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, brought together senior officers, management staff, and colleagues to honour Balogun’s groundbreaking achievement. Her journey from cabin attendant to licensed commercial pilot was described as both inspiring and transformative.
Retired Comptroller of Customs, Captain Kuhi Mbaya, praised her accomplishment:
“For the first time, we now have a female pilot in the NCS. She has set a record, and it is important that we celebrate and recognise this milestone.”
Mbaya emphasised that Balogun’s success reflects the evolving opportunities within the Service and urged more women to pursue their ambitions without fear. He commended Comptroller‑General Adewale Adeniyi for his leadership and commitment to gender inclusion.
In her remarks, Balogun expressed gratitude for the support she received:
“This journey has not been easy, but I am grateful for the encouragement and belief shown in me. This achievement stands as a testament to that support.”
She pledged to continue serving with dedication, integrity, and professionalism, while colleagues described her feat as a source of motivation for other officers, especially women, to strive for excellence in specialised fields.
Balogun’s achievement not only breaks new ground within the Nigeria Customs Service but also stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, discipline, and determination—opening doors for future generations of women in aviation and beyond.