Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Olanike Balogun has made history as the first woman to serve as a pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), paving the way for other women in aviation.
Originally from Kaduna and hailing from Odo-Otin Local Government Area in Osun State, Balogun’s journey with the NCS began in 2002 when she was hired as a Customs Assistant and became part of the Service’s Airwing Unit as a cabin crew member.
In a recent interview, DSC Balogun reflected on her remarkable career, emphasizing how her relentless ambition and the NCS’s backing allowed her to transition from a flight attendant to a fully licensed pilot.
“Choosing to stay with the NCS when many of my peers left for higher-paying jobs with commercial airlines was challenging, but I was determined to serve the public and achieve my goal of becoming a pilot,” she said.
Balogun’s academic achievements include earning an Advanced Diploma in Air Ticketing and Cabin Services, a Master’s in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, and eventually completing her pilot training at the Flying Academy in Miami, Florida, with sponsorship from the NCS.
As the first female pilot in the NCS, Balogun sees her role as a source of inspiration for women both within the Service and beyond, encouraging them to pursue their dreams. “Being the first female pilot in the Service is a testament to my dedication to achieving my dreams and contributing to the NCS’s operational excellence,” she shared.
Balogun hopes her story will encourage young Nigerians, particularly women, to break through barriers and reach for their aspirations.
“I hope my experience will inspire others, especially young women, to follow their passions and overcome obstacles,” she added.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, praised her achievement, highlighting it as an example of the NCS’s dedication to professional development and innovation.
“Her story demonstrates the power of determination, supported by the right institutions,” he noted.
