ABUJA/Nigeria: Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has congratulated Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Akpevwe Ogboru, popularly known as Tracta 2, for her extraordinary achievement in completing a 72-day solo motorcycle expedition from Nigeria to Belgium and back.
In a statement personally signed by the lawmaker, Senator Dafinone described the feat as a “powerful demonstration of the indomitable Urhobo Spirit,” praising Ogboru’s courage, resourcefulness, and determination, which he said reflect the resilience and excellence of the Urhobo nation and Nigeria at large.
The Senator noted that Assistant Comptroller Ogboru’s remarkable cross-continental journey, which took her through 22 countries across Africa and Europe, was not just a personal triumph but also a historic moment for Nigerian women and the nation’s image abroad.
“The scale of Assistant Comptroller Ogboru’s dedication is truly staggering,” Dafinone said. “Setting off on August 1, 2025, she navigated challenging terrains before triumphantly arriving back in Nigeria on Saturday, October 11, 2025, to a warm reception at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post. The initial leg of her journey alone covered over 10,000 kilometers across 10 countries and two continents, proving her mettle and the resilience of her motorcycle, affectionately named Rocky.”
He commended her for completing the journey under the theme ‘Ride for Women Inclusivity and Cross-Border Research’, dedicating her expedition to promoting women’s empowerment and encouraging the girl-child to dream boldly and pursue her ambitions without fear.
According to Senator Dafinone, Ogboru’s story is an inspiring testament to faith, discipline, and mental fortitude. “Her words—that she overcame hurdles, including mechanical setbacks, through faith and a positive mindset—offer a lasting lesson in resilience for all Nigerians facing adversity,” he added.
Senator Dafinone further highlighted the historical significance of Ogboru’s accomplishment, noting that she has become the first female officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to complete such a demanding solo expedition, following in the legendary footsteps of Olabisi Ajala, the renowned Nigerian globetrotter who toured the world on a scooter in 1952.
“While we acknowledge the praise she has received from the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service for her bravery and dedication, her achievement transcends her uniform,” he said. “It strengthens Africa–Europe relations and projects a positive image of Nigeria to the world.”
The Senator called on Nigerians, especially women and young people, to draw inspiration from Ogboru’s courage and perseverance, describing her as a “beacon of possibility and purpose.”
“I join the Urhobo people, Deltans, and indeed all Nigerians in celebrating Assistant Comptroller Akpevwe Ogboru for this historic accomplishment. Her courage serves as a vital spark for our youth, demonstrating that with focus and positivity, boundaries can indeed be transcended,” Dafinone stated.
He urged every Nigerian woman and girl to embrace Ogboru’s story as proof that “no dream is too daring and no boundary too far.”
