Nafisat Balogun
Balogun makes history, becomes first female pilot in Customs
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) now has its first female pilot. She is Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Olanike Nafisat Balogun.
This is a historic milestone and breaking barriers in aviation within the service.
A statement by Customs’ National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, said Balogun, a native of Odo-Otin Local Government Area, Osun State, was born in Kaduna and joined the service in 2002 as a customs assistant.
Earlier, Balogun had served as a cabin crew member in the air wing unit and her ambition as well as determination paved the way for her to transition into a licensed pilot.
Balogun recalled how she persevered through challenges, choosing public service over lucrative airline offers.
The statement quoted Balogun as saying, “It was a tough decision, but my goal was to contribute to public service and fulfil my dream of becoming a pilot.”
Balogun also obtained an advanced diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, and now a pilot certification from the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, sponsored by the NCS.
She highlighted the importance of her achievement as an inspiration for women within and beyond the service.
“Becoming the first female pilot in the NCS Airwing reflects my commitment to advancing both my dreams and the operational capabilities of the NCS,” she said, encouraging young Nigerians, particularly women, to pursue their ambitions relentlessly.