Assistant Comptroller of Customs Akpevwe Ogboru received a jubilant welcome at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post on Saturday, October 11, 2025, after completing a 72-day solo motorbike expedition from Nigeria to Belgium and back. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) stated that Ogboru embarked on the journey on August 1, 2025, traveling through 22 countries across Africa and Europe, covering 20,530 kilometers. Senior officers, led by Comptroller Wale Adenuga, Area Controller of the Seme Command, along with other Zone A Area Controllers, gathered to celebrate her return.
Expressing gratitude, Ogboru spoke about the difficulties and triumphs of her adventure. “It’s been 72 days across 22 countries, and I’m glad to be back,” she said. “I stayed positive throughout. Whenever challenges arose, I prayed and kept going. Sometimes my bike, Rocky, developed minor faults in new places, but we always found a way.” She explained that her mission was to promote women’s empowerment and inspire the girl-child. “This ride was to show women the importance of courage and determination,” she said.
“Never let fear or doubt stop you. Set your goals and chase them with confidence.” Her motorcycle, Rocky, carried her across deserts, mountains, and rain-soaked terrains, symbolizing resilience and strength. Her route included countries such as Benin, Senegal, Morocco, Spain, and Belgium, where she visited the Nigerian Embassy in Brussels on September 4. The trip also sought to encourage stronger relations between Africa and Europe. “Africa and Europe have much to learn from each other,” Ogboru noted.
“I hope this journey inspires positive connections and collaboration.” Comptroller Adenuga praised Ogboru’s bravery and credited Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for promoting inclusivity within the Service. “Many doubted her, but the CGC supported her vision,” Adenuga said. “She has placed Nigeria on the global map, and her success will further boost trade facilitation under the CGC’s leadership.”
As the first female Customs officer to accomplish such a feat, Ogboru’s achievement has drawn widespread admiration, motivating women and officers alike to pursue bold and ambitious goals.
Source: https://www.nigerianeye.com/
