By Damilare Adeleye
The Nigeria Customs Service has announced Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot), Olanike Nafisat Balogun, as the first female pilot.
Celebrating her feat, the NCS in a statement on Sunday on its social media platforms, highlighted Balogun’s journey of resilience and ambition, praising the service for its support in transforming her dreams into reality.
According to the statement, Balogun was born in Kaduna and hails from Odo-Otin Local Government Area in Osun State.
Her remarkable journey began in 2002 when she was recruited as a Customs Assistant to serve in the NCS Airwing Unit.
Expressing her joy, the NCS first female pilot said, “Staying in the Service when many of my colleagues opted for better-paying airline jobs was a tough decision, but I was determined to contribute to public service and achieve my dream of becoming a pilot.”
Balogun’s achievements include earning an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, and her Pilot Certification from the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, with full sponsorship by the NCS.
Reflecting on her accomplishment, Balogun said, “My role as the first female pilot in the Service reflects my commitment to advancing my dream and enhancing the operational capabilities of the NCS.”
She added, “I hope my journey motivates young Nigerians, especially women, to chase their dreams and break through barriers.”
The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, lauded her achievement, calling it a testament to the NCS’s dedication to capacity building and innovation.
“Her story exemplifies what is possible with determination and institutional support,” he stated.
