The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has celebrated a major milestone as its first female pilot, Superintendent Nafisat Balogun, successfully obtained a commercial multi-engine pilot licence in the United States.
The achievement was confirmed in Abuja by NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada, who described it as a landmark moment for the service and a breakthrough in gender inclusion within Nigeria’s aviation and paramilitary sectors.
Balogun’s accomplishment further strengthens her pioneering role as the first female pilot in the NCS, a profession traditionally dominated by men.
Following the feat, she was honoured at a special ceremony organised by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, where senior officials commended her determination and professional growth.
Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, Captain Kuhi Mbaya, praised Balogun’s journey, noting that her transition from a cabin crew member to a certified commercial pilot is both inspiring and transformative.
He described her success as a reflection of evolving opportunities within the NCS and a signal that barriers for women in specialised careers are gradually being dismantled.
Mbaya also highlighted that Balogun’s achievement sets a precedent for other female officers, encouraging them to pursue careers in aviation and other technical fields.
He further commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for promoting gender inclusivity and supporting professional development within the service.
In her response, Balogun expressed gratitude to the NCS leadership for their support and confidence in her abilities.
She reaffirmed her commitment to excellence, professionalism, and dedicated service in her role.
Her achievement builds on her earlier recognition in 2024 as the first female pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service, marking a significant step forward for women in aviation in Nigeria.
