Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Akpevwe Ogboru, a female officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has successfully completed a remarkable 72-day motorbike expedition from Nigeria to Belgium and back — becoming the first female officer in the Service to accomplish such a feat.
Ogboru began her journey on August 1, 2025, and returned to Nigeria on Saturday, October 11, 2025. She was warmly received at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post with Benin Republic by senior NCS officials, including the Seme Customs Area Controller, Wale Adenuga, and other officers from Zone A.
According to a statement issued by the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, Ogboru recounted the highs and lows of her adventure, which took her through 22 countries across Africa and Europe.
“It’s been 72 days in 22 countries, and I am happy to be finally back,” she said. “I just like to stay on the positive side of life. Every time I move, I move with positivity. When challenges came, I prayed about it. Sometimes the bike had minor issues, but I managed through with faith and determination.”
Ogboru explained that her journey was inspired by a desire to promote women’s empowerment and inclusivity, encouraging women and girls to pursue their dreams with courage and confidence.
“This ride was for women’s inclusivity and the empowerment of the girl-child,” she stated. “It’s to encourage all women to be strong and never let fear or discouragement stop them from achieving their goals.”
She expressed hope that her cross-continental experience would foster stronger relations between Africa and Europe and inspire mutual growth. “Africa and Europe have much to learn from each other. I hope this experience promotes collaboration and positive change,” she added.
Commending Ogboru’s achievement, Area Controller Wale Adenuga praised her bravery and resilience, describing her as an inspiration to the Service and a reflection of the leadership vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi.
“We have a CGC who believes in inclusivity and empowerment,” Adenuga said. “Many discouraged her, but the CGC supported her. With this historic achievement, she has placed Nigeria and the Customs Service on the global map.”
Ogboru’s successful journey has earned her widespread admiration within the NCS and beyond, symbolizing courage, perseverance, and the limitless potential of women in public service.
Source:Africa Publicity
