As the first female pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Olanike Nafisat Balogun has broken down barriers in aviation and blazed a trail of perseverance. Her adventure started in 2002 when Balogun, a native of Odo-Otin Local Government Area, Osun State, was hired as a Customs Assistant to work as cabin crew in the Service’s Airwing Unit.
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She was born in Kaduna. In a recent interview, DSC Balogun talked about her path and how she went from being a flight attendant to a certified pilot thanks to her constant drive and the Service’s support. “It was difficult to stay in the Service when many of my coworkers chose to work for higher-paying airlines, but I was committed to helping the public and pursuing my goal of becoming a pilot,” she added.
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.
Being the first female pilot in the NCS Airwing, DSC Balogun claimed, is recognised for encouraging women both inside and outside the Service to never give up on their goals. She went on to say, “Being the first female pilot in the service reflects my commitment as a woman to advancing both the NCS’s operational capabilities and my passionate dream.” “I hope my journey motivates young Nigerians, especially women, to chase their dreams and break through barriers,” says Balogun, who is still passionate about inspiring others while flying for the NCS.
In a statement, Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi praised her hard work and said her accomplishment demonstrated the Service’s dedication to innovation and capacity building. “Her story is a testament to what can be achieved with perseverance and institutional support,” he said.
