Nigeria Customs’ Akpevwe Ogboru Completes 72-Day Solo Nigeria–Belgium–Nigeria Journey
…Returns to Heroic Welcome at Seme Border
In an inspiring display of courage, endurance, and determination, Assistant Comptroller of Customs (AC) Akpevwe Ogboru, a distinguished officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has completed an extraordinary 72-day solo motorbike expedition from Nigeria to Belgium and back.
Ogboru, who embarked on the daring cross-continental adventure on August 1, 2025, returned to a heroic welcome on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post. She was received by senior Customs officials, including the host Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, and other Area Controllers from Zone A.
Radiating joy and gratitude, AC Ogboru shared highlights of her journey, which spanned 22 countries across Africa and Europe.
“It’s been 72 days through 22 countries, and I’m happy to be finally back,” she said. “Every time I move, I move with positivity. When challenges came, I prayed about it. Sometimes, the bike had small issues, but God always saw me through.”
Ogboru revealed that her mission was more than an adventure — it was a statement of women’s empowerment and resilience.
“This ride was for women’s inclusivity and the empowerment of the girl-child,” she explained. “It’s to encourage women not to be discouraged. Whatever you set your mind to do, do it. Don’t allow fear or people’s opinions to hold you back — positivity keeps you moving.”
She affectionately named her motorcycle “Rocky”, symbolizing endurance, strength, and determination throughout the trip. Ogboru also expressed her hope that the journey would promote stronger Africa–Europe relations and inspire meaningful partnerships.
“My prayer is that this ride will bring about positivity and meaningful impact,” she said. “Africa and Europe have much to learn from each other, and I hope this experience contributes to shared progress.”
In his remarks, Comptroller Wale Adenuga praised Ogboru’s exceptional courage and pioneering spirit, describing her feat as both a personal triumph and a proud moment for the Nigeria Customs Service.
“We have a Comptroller-General who believes in inclusivity and empowerment,” Adenuga noted. “Many discouraged her, but the CGC stood by her. That shows we have leadership that supports innovation and boldness. With this achievement, AC Ogboru has put Nigeria on the world map.”
AC Akpevwe Ogboru now holds the distinction of being the first female officer in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service to embark on and successfully complete such a cross-continental expedition — a milestone that has earned her nationwide admiration and respect.
Her story stands as a beacon of courage, perseverance, and hope — not only for women in uniform but for every Nigerian who dares to dream beyond boundaries.
