NIGERIA CUSTOMS GETS FIRST FEMALE PILOT

Read Time:1 Minute, 39 Second

As the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) first female pilot, Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Olanike Nafisat Balogun has broken down barriers in aviation and blazed a trail of perseverance.

Balogun was hired as a Customs Assistant to work as cabin crew in the Service’s Airwing Unit in 2002. She was born in Kaduna and originally from Odo-Otin Local Government Area, Osun.

In a recent interview, DSC Balogun discussed her experience and how moving from flight attendant to licensed pilot was made possible by her relentless drive and the Service’s support.

“Staying in the Service when many of my colleagues opted for better-paying airline jobs was a tough decision, but I was determined to contribute to public service and achieve my dream of becoming a pilot,” she said.

The NCS sponsored Balogun’s training at the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, where she eventually obtained her Pilot Certification. Other career highlights include receiving an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services and a Master’s in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University.

DSC Balogun asserted that being the first female pilot in the NCS Airwing is credited to inspiring women within and beyond the Service never to relent in pursuing their dreams. “My role as the first female pilot in the service reflects my commitment as a woman to advancing my passionate dream as well as the operational capabilities of the NCS” she added.

As she continues to fly for the NCS, Balogun remains passionate about inspiring others, stating, “I hope my journey motivates young Nigerians, especially women, to chase their dreams and break through barriers.”

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, in a statement commended her dedication and described her achievement as a testament to the Service’s commitment to capacity building and innovation. “Her story exemplifies what is possible with determination and institutional support,” he said.

READ ALSO: