The Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has commended Assistant Comptroller of Customs (AC) Akpevwe Ogboru for her exceptional achievement, describing her as “a true ambassador of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)” following her historic solo motorbike trip from Nigeria to Belgium.
Speaking during a reception organized in her honour, Comptroller Oshoba praised Ogboru’s courage, determination, and innovation, noting that her 72-day adventure represents the very best of the Service’s values — hard work, resilience, adventure, and excellence.
“On behalf of the officers and men of Apapa Command, you have made us proud by becoming a global celebrity during my tenure as CAC,” Comptroller Oshoba said.
“Your trip on a motorbike from Nigeria to Belgium speaks volumes about our Service and the values we uphold. You have proven yourself as an ambassador of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly of Apapa Command, where you serve with distinction. We followed your journey with great pride, and it felt like watching the Discovery Channel — only this time, one of our own was the star.”
The Comptroller further described Ogboru as a symbol of human endurance, physical fitness, and mental alertness, noting her ability to adapt across diverse terrains, climates, and time zones during her expedition.
“Your 72-day solo ride was a remarkable feat,” he added. “You have inspired your colleagues and motivated your superiors. You are indeed a celebrity in Customs uniform, and the global community has taken note of your accomplishment. No venture, no success — thank you for venturing, and thank God for your success.”
In her remarks, Deputy Comptroller AB Yinusa lauded Ogboru as “a woman of valour, resilience, and unyielding determination,” describing her as a trailblazer who has broken barriers and inspired countless women within and beyond the Service.She said:
“Assistant Comptroller Ogboru’s 72-day expedition from Nigeria to Belgium is not just a tale of adventure it is a story of courage, endurance, and possibility. It reflects the spirit of the modern Customs officer — bold, curious, and globally minded. Her journey reminds us that we are not only enforcers of trade laws and protectors of the nation’s economic frontiers, but also ambassadors of resilience and excellence.”
Yinusa added that Ogboru’s achievement has projected a new image for the Nigeria Customs Service, demonstrating that women in uniform can achieve greatness beyond traditional expectations.
“She has proven that women can dream boldly, act courageously, and achieve exceptionally. In a world that often limits women’s possibilities, she has opened a new chapter — one written with grit, adventure, and limitless ambition. Her story tells every young girl that no journey is too long, no dream too high, and no road too far when courage leads the way.”
Also speaking, Mrs. Vicky Haastrup, Chairman of ENL Consortium, expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, PhD, for his continued encouragement and support for women officers in the Service.
“I want to thank the Comptroller-General for inspiring women to spread their wings and soar,” she said. “AC Ogboru, the sky is your limit. People say what a man can do, a woman can do better — and you have just proven that. To every woman in the Nigeria Customs Service, I say this: you are not weak. You are strong, capable, and courageous.”
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