Trailblazing Customs Officer Completes 72-Day Solo Motorbike Journey from Nigeria to Belgium and Back

…Akpevwe Ogboru returns to heroic welcome at Seme Border, inspires women with message of courage and inclusivity

With a remarkable display of endurance, courage, and determination, Assistant Comptroller of Customs (AC) Akpevwe Ogboru of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has completed a record-breaking 72-day solo motorbike journey from Nigeria to Belgium and back, covering 22 countries across Africa and Europe.

Ogboru, who set out on her daring expedition on 1 August 2025, arrived back in Nigeria on Saturday, 11 October 2025, to a rousing and emotional reception at the Seme–Krake Joint Border Post.

She was received by senior Customs officers, led by the host Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, alongside other Area Controllers within Zone A.

Her arrival drew cheers and applause from colleagues, friends, and admirers, many of whom hailed her as a trailblazer and an embodiment of resilience and patriotism.

Reflecting on her journey, AC Ogboru described the experience as both physically demanding and spiritually rewarding. She travelled thousands of kilometres across 22 countries, navigating diverse terrains, cultures, and climates – from the heat of the Sahara to the cool landscapes of Europe.

“It’s been 72 days in 22 countries, and I’m happy to be finally back,” she said with a radiant smile. “I just like to stay on the positive side of life. Every time I move, I move with positivity. When challenges came, I prayed about it. Sometimes the bike would have a little issue, but God always saw me through.”

Ogboru revealed that her journey was inspired by a powerful mission – to promote women’s inclusivity and empowerment, especially in a society where women are often discouraged from pursuing bold ambitions.

“This ride was for women’s inclusivity and the empowerment of the girl-child,” she explained passionately. “It’s to encourage all women and tell them, be strong, don’t be discouraged. Whatever you set your mind to do, do it. Don’t allow fear or people’s opinions to hold you back. Fear cripples, but positivity moves you forward.”

Her trusty motorcycle, affectionately named Rocky, became more than just a mode of transportation – it symbolised endurance, faith, and perseverance. Ogboru spoke fondly of her bond with the machine that carried her through deserts, rainstorms, and bustling cities across two continents.

“My prayer is that this ride will bring about positivity and meaningful impact,” she said. “Africa and Europe can do better. We have things to learn from each other, and I hope this experience encourages growth and collaboration between both continents.”

Comptroller Wale Adenuga, who led the welcoming ceremony, praised AC Ogboru for her exceptional bravery and commitment.

He noted that her feat reflected the inclusive and progressive leadership style of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), who, according to him, supported Ogboru’s vision despite initial scepticism from others.

“We have a CGC who believes in inclusivity and empowerment,” Adenuga said. “She mentioned that many people discouraged her, but the CGC stood by her. That shows we have leadership that encourages boldness and innovation. With this achievement, she has put Nigeria on the world map, and I believe trade facilitation will become better under the CGC’s vision.”

With her triumphant return, AC Akpevwe Ogboru has made history as the first female officer of the Nigeria Customs Service to embark on and successfully complete such a solo cross-continental motorcycle expedition.

Her achievement has drawn admiration from within and beyond the Service, positioning her as a symbol of courage, tenacity, and hope for women across Africa.

Her 72-day journey, marked by faith, endurance, and self-belief, stands not only as a personal triumph but also as an emblem of what Nigerian women – and indeed Africans – can achieve when passion meets purpose.

As the sun set over the Seme border on Saturday evening, AC Ogboru stood beside Rocky, her helmet in hand, surrounded by cheers and flashing cameras.

Her words, simple yet profound, lingered in the air: “Anything you set your mind to do, do it. Don’t let fear stop you. Move with positivity – and everything will fall into place.”