Meet Olanike Balogun: The first female pilot in Nigeria Customs Service history
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made history with the announcement of Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DCS) Olanike Balogun as its first female pilot.
The milestone was revealed in an official statement on Sunday, December 8.
Balogun, a native of Kaduna in northwestern Nigeria, began her journey with the NCS in 2002. Initially recruited as a customs assistant, she served as a cabin crew member in the service’s Airwing Unit before advancing to this historic role as the first woman pilot in the NCS.
Speaking on her achievement, Balogun emphasised the significance of her new role as an inspiration for women pursuing their aspirations. “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 stated.
Balogun, who earned her pilot certification from the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, also holds an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services and a Master’s in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University in Kaduna.
Her accomplishment marks a significant moment in the gender equality movement within Africa's aerospace industry, as she joins other African women breaking barriers in the male-dominated field.
“I hope my journey motivates young Nigerians, especially women, to chase their dreams and break through barriers,” Balogun shared.
