History made as former cabin crew member becomes first female pilot in Nigeria Customs

Olanike Nafisat Balogun, a former cabin crew member and Deputy Superintendent of Customs, has made history as the first female pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), breaking barriers in aviation and demonstrating resilience. In a statement released by the NCS on Sunday, December 8, 2024, it was revealed that Balogun, born in Kaduna and hailing from Odo-Otin Local Government Area in Osun State, began her career with the NCS in 2002 as a Customs Assistant and cabin crew member in the Service’s Airwing Unit.

Reflecting on her journey in a recent interview, DSC Balogun shared how her determination and the support of the NCS allowed her to transition from a flight attendant to a licensed pilot. She recalled the challenge of staying with the Service when many of her colleagues left for higher-paying airline jobs, but she was committed to public service and pursuing her dream of becoming a pilot.

Balogun’s accomplishments include an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services, a Master’s in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, and obtaining her Pilot Certification from the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, with the NCS sponsoring her training. She expressed pride in being the first female pilot in the NCS, emphasizing that her achievement serves as an inspiration for women both within and outside the Service to pursue their dreams. “My role reflects my commitment as a woman to advancing my dream and the NCS’s operational capabilities,” she said.

Balogun aims to motivate others, particularly young Nigerians and women, to break through barriers and chase their dreams. The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, praised her achievement, calling it a testament to the NCS's dedication to capacity building and innovation, adding, “Her story exemplifies what is possible with determination and institutional support.”