A senior officer in the Nigeria Customs Service has made history by completing a solo motorbike journey from Nigeria to Belgium and back — a gruelling expedition that spanned 72 days and crossed 22 countries.
Assistant Comptroller of Customs Akpevwe Ogboru returned triumphantly on Saturday, 11 October 2025, to a warm reception at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post.
She had set off on the cross-continental ride on 1 August 2025, becoming the first female officer in the Service’s history to undertake and complete such a feat.
The daring journey, which took her through a mix of terrains and climates across Africa and Europe, was both a personal challenge and a message of empowerment.
Speaking on her return, Ogboru shared the inspiration behind her epic ride, emphasising its symbolic importance for women and girls across the continent.
“This ride was about women’s inclusivity and the empowerment of the girl-child,” she 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.”
Naming her motorbike Rocky, Ogboru described it as a symbol of resilience. She also noted that the journey was not without its difficulties, but she faced each challenge with a spirit of perseverance and faith.
“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 said.
Beyond its personal and symbolic impact, Ogboru expressed hope that the journey would serve as a metaphor for stronger ties 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.”
Ogboru’s return was met with applause from senior Customs officials, including Comptroller Wale Adenuga, who praised her courage and the example she has set for others within the Service.
“We have a Comptroller-General who believes in inclusivity and empowerment,” said Adenuga. “Ogboru was discouraged by many, but the CGC stood by her. Her achievement is not only a personal victory but a testament to bold, visionary leadership within the Nigeria Customs Service.”
He added that her accomplishment had “put Nigeria on the world map” and expressed hope that it would further inspire innovations in trade facilitation.
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