The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has celebrated a landmark achievement as its first female pilot, Nafisat Balogun, obtained a commercial multi-engine pilot licence in the United States.
The development was disclosed in a statement on Sunday in Abuja by the NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, who noted that the officer was recently honoured at a ceremony organised by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service.
Maiwada described the feat as historic, highlighting Balogun’s emergence as the first woman pilot in the service, a field traditionally dominated by men.
He said her resilience and determination should inspire other officers to pursue excellence and take advantage of opportunities within the service.
At the ceremony, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, Kuhi Mbaya, commended Balogun’s journey, describing it as both inspiring and transformative.
According to him, her rise from a cabin crew member to a certified commercial pilot reflects the evolving prospects within the service.
“This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service,” Mbaya said, adding that her success has set a new benchmark.
He encouraged more women to pursue careers in specialised fields, stressing that barriers are gradually being dismantled.
“This achievement shows there are no limits. With determination and consistency, more women can realise their ambitions,” he added.
Mbaya also praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for promoting gender inclusion and supporting officers’ professional growth.
In her response, Balogun expressed appreciation to the NCS for its support, pledging to continue serving with dedication, integrity and professionalism.
Balogun had earlier made history in 2024 when she emerged as the first female pilot in the service, marking a major breakthrough in the NCS aviation unit and setting the pace for greater gender inclusion.