A senior officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Assistant Comptroller Akpevwe Ogboru, has achieved a remarkable feat by completing a 72-day solo motorbike expedition from Nigeria to Belgium and back — a journey that covered 22 countries across two continents.
Ogboru returned triumphantly on Saturday, October 11, 2025, to a warm reception at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post, marking the end of an extraordinary cross-continental adventure that began on August 1, 2025.
The milestone makes her the first female officer in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service to embark on and successfully complete such a daring expedition. Her journey, she said, was both a personal challenge and a powerful message of courage and empowerment for women and girls.
“This ride was about women’s inclusivity and the empowerment of the girl-child,” Ogboru said. “It’s a message to women everywhere — be strong, don’t let fear or doubt stop you. When you stay positive, things fall into place.”
Nicknaming her motorcycle Rocky to symbolize resilience, Ogboru recounted moments of difficulty along the route — from mechanical issues to unpredictable weather — but said faith and determination kept her going.
“Sometimes the bike would have minor issues just after I crossed into a new country, but I managed to fix them. I prayed, stayed calm, and moved forward,” she added.
Beyond personal achievement, Ogboru expressed hope that her cross-border ride would serve as a bridge of goodwill and understanding between Africa and Europe.
“My prayer is that this ride brings about positivity and meaningful impact,” she said. “Africa and Europe have much to learn from each other. I hope this journey inspires collaboration and growth.”
Her return was celebrated by senior Customs officials, including Comptroller Wale Adenuga, who commended her for her bravery and trailblazing spirit.
“We have a Comptroller-General who believes in inclusivity and empowerment,” Adenuga said. “Ogboru was discouraged by many, but the CGC stood by her. Her achievement is not only a personal victory but also a testament to bold, visionary leadership within the Nigeria Customs Service.”
Adenuga added that Ogboru’s accomplishment had “put Nigeria on the world map” and expressed optimism that her feat would inspire further innovations and resilience within the Service.
