Customs Celebrates SC Nafisat Balogun’s Historic Commercial Multi-Engine License Achievement
Recall that Nafisat Olanike Balogun became the Service’s first female pilot in December 2024 as a Deputy Superintendent of Customs, who transitioned from a flight operations officer and cabin crew member to the pilot’s seat, with her training in Miami, Florida, sponsored by the NCS. Now a Superintendent of Customs, she has added another feather to her cap with a commercial multi-engine pilot license milestone.
ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service has celebrated what it described as a historic milestone, the achievement of its first female pilot, Superintendent of Customs Nafisat Olanike Balogun, who recently obtained a commercial multi-engine pilot license in the United States of America.
This achievement according to the Service, marks a significant advancement in SC Balogun Aviation career and is a precedent that reflects expanding opportunities for professional development within the Agency.
Recall that Nafisat Olanike Balogun made history in December 2024 when she became the Nigeria Customs Service’s first female pilot as a Deputy Superintendent of Customs. She transitioned from flight operations officer and cabin crew duties to the cockpit after undergoing training in Miami, Florida, under sponsorship of the Service.
Now a Superintendent of Customs, Olanike has added another feather to her cap with this new achievement.
During a ceremony organised by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service which brought together senior officers, management staff, and colleagues to honour her for breaking new ground, the Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, retired Comptroller of Customs, Captain Kuhi Mbaya, described Balogun’s journey as inspiring and transformative.
He said her achievement underscored the Service’s commitment to promoting gender inclusivity in a field previously dominated by men.
“Our officer, Nafisat Balogun, has transitioned from being a cabin attendant to a fully-fledged commercial pilot. This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service,” Mbaya said.
Mbaya noted that her accomplishment sets a precedent and reflects the evolving opportunities within the service.
“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,” he added.
He further encouraged women to pursue their ambitions without fear, stressing that barriers have been broken.
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“This achievement shows that there are no limits. The glass ceiling has been shattered, and with determination and consistency, more women can achieve their dreams,” Mbaya said.
He also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and support for gender inclusion within the service.
In her response, Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Balogun expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and support from her superiors and colleagues.
“I am truly honoured and humbled by this warm reception. This journey has not been easy, but I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and belief shown in me,” she said.
Balogun added that her achievement was made possible by the backing of the service’s leadership.
“I sincerely appreciate the Comptroller-General of Customs and the entire management team for their invaluable support. This achievement stands as a testament to that encouragement,” she noted.
She reaffirmed her commitment to excellence and service, pledging to continue making the organisation proud.
“I promise to continue to serve with dedication, integrity, and professionalism,” she said.
Colleagues at the event also expressed pride and admiration for her accomplishment, describing it as a source of motivation for other officers, especially women, to strive for excellence and pursue careers in specialised fields.
Many congratulatory messages highlighted her resilience, discipline, and determination, noting that her success has opened new opportunities within the service.