Nigerian Customs’ First Female Pilot Earns Commercial Licence In US

Nigerian Customs’ First Female Pilot Earns Commercial Licence In US
First female pilot in Nigeria Customs sets new milestone
Achievement highlights gender inclusion and professional growth

The first female pilot of the Nigeria Customs Service, Nafisat Balogun, has obtained a commercial multi engine pilot licence in the United States.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, who described the achievement as a major milestone for the service.

EDITOR’S PICKS

EKO HOT BLOG reports that Maiwada said Balogun, a Superintendent of Customs, was recently honoured at a ceremony organised by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service in recognition of her accomplishment. He noted that she remains the first female pilot in the service, a field traditionally dominated by men.

According to him, her resilience, discipline and determination should serve as inspiration to other officers to pursue excellence and take advantage of opportunities within the organisation.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, Kuhi Mbaya, described Balogun’s journey as inspiring. He said her progression from a cabin attendant to a commercial pilot reflects both personal commitment and institutional support.

“This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service,” Mbaya said.

He added that Balogun’s success has set a new benchmark within the agency and highlights expanding opportunities for personnel.

“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 said.

Mbaya urged more women to pursue careers in specialised fields, stressing that determination and consistency remain key to success.

“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 added.

He also commended the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for promoting gender inclusion and professional development.

In her remarks, Balogun expressed appreciation to the service for its support and pledged continued dedication, integrity and professionalism in her duties.

Balogun first made history in 2024 when she became the first female pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service, a development widely seen as a symbol of progress within the agency.