Cabin crew member makes history as Customs’ first female pilot

Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot), Olanike Nafisat Balogun, has etched her name in history as the first female pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), breaking barriers in aviation and demonstrating remarkable resilience.

A native of Odo-Otin Local Government Area in Osun State and born in Kaduna, Balogun’s journey began in 2002 when she was recruited as a Customs Assistant and assigned to the NCS Airwing Unit as a cabin crew member.

In a recent interview, DSC Balogun shared the story of her transformation from flight attendant to licensed pilot, attributing her success to an unwavering determination and the support of the Nigeria Customs Service.

“Staying with the Service when many of my colleagues left for more lucrative airline jobs was a tough choice, but I was committed to public service and to achieving my dream of becoming a pilot,” she recalled.

Balogun’s career achievements include earning an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services, a Master’s in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, and securing her Pilot Certification at the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, with sponsorship from the NCS.

As the first female pilot in the NCS Airwing, she hopes to inspire women within and beyond the Service to chase their dreams relentlessly.

“My role as the first female pilot reflects my commitment to advancing both my personal dreams and the operational success of the NCS,” she shared.

“I aim to inspire others, especially young women, to break through barriers and follow their aspirations.”

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, commended Balogun’s dedication, praising her achievement as a shining example of the Service’s commitment to innovation and capacity building.

“Her story is a powerful example of what can be achieved with determination and institutional support,” he said.