The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a major operational milestone with the emergence of its first-ever female pilot, Superintendent of Customs, Nafisat Balogun, who recently obtained a commercial multi-engine pilot licence in the United States of America.

The milestone, formally celebrated by the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service, signals a strategic shift in the NCS technical manpower development as it deepens investments in air surveillance, logistics, and enforcement support systems critical to port efficiency and anti-smuggling operations.

The Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, retired Comptroller of Customs, Capt. Kuhi Mbaya speaking on the achuevemenet said, “Our officer, Nafisat Balogun, has transitioned from being a cabin attendant to a fully-fledged commercial pilot. This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service.”

Balogun also expressed appreciation for the institutional support that enabled her transition into a highly specialised aviation role, saying, “I am truly honoured and humbled by this warm reception. This journey has not been easy, but I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and belief shown in me.”

Here are facts about Nafisat Balogun you should know:

1. She was born in Kaduna and a native of Odo-Otin Local Government Area, Osun State.

2. Balogun’s journey began in 2002 when she was recruited as a Customs Assistant to serve as a cabin crew member in the Service’s Airwing Unit.

3. Balogun earned an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University.

4. She obtained her Pilot Certification from the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, sponsored by the NCS, marking a historic milestone as the first female pilot within the Service.

5. She is credited with enhancing the operational capabilities of the NCS Airwing and serves as a role model for women in aviation and public service across Nigeria.

After achieving the feat of becoming Nigeria Customs’ first female pilot, she has achieved another feat as she becomes the first female Custom pilot to obtain a license from the United States of America. (The Nation)

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