By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has celebrated Superintendent of Customs Nafisat Balogun for achieving a historic milestone by obtaining a commercial multi-engine pilot licence in the United Kingdom, becoming the first female pilot in the service.
The recognition ceremony, organised by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, brought together senior officers, management staff and colleagues who gathered to honour Balogun for breaking new ground in a field that has traditionally been dominated by men within the service.
Her achievement marks a significant moment for the NCS, signalling expanding opportunities for women in specialised operational roles and reinforcing ongoing efforts toward greater gender inclusion within the organisation.
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 for the service.
According to him, the officer’s progression from a cabin attendant to a certified commercial pilot demonstrates determination, resilience and professional excellence.
“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.
He noted that the milestone represents a major breakthrough within the NCS and sets a new precedent for women aspiring to pursue careers in aviation and other specialised fields in the organisation.
“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.
Mbaya also encouraged more women to pursue their ambitions with confidence, stressing that longstanding barriers are gradually being dismantled.
“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,” he said.
He further commended the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for supporting gender inclusion and creating an enabling environment for officers to excel.
Responding to the honour, Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Nafisat Balogun expressed appreciation for the recognition and encouragement she has received from the leadership and personnel of the service.
“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 emphasised that the milestone was made possible through the support of the NCS leadership and management.
“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 added.
She also reaffirmed her commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and service in her new role.
“I promise to continue to serve with dedication, integrity, and professionalism,” she said.
Colleagues and officers present at the event expressed pride in Balogun’s accomplishment, describing it as a major inspiration for personnel across the service, particularly women seeking to break into specialised operational fields.
Many of the congratulatory messages highlighted her discipline, resilience and determination, noting that her success has not only made history within the NCS but has also opened new pathways for female officers aspiring to careers in aviation and other technical roles within the organisation.
