Nigerian Navy Celebrates First Female Pilot At 2024 Sunset Ceremony

Lt. Changfe Maigari has made history as the first woman to become a pilot in the Nigerian Navy. She earned this recognition after completing her basic pilot training and fulfilling all necessary requirements.

Her achievement was celebrated during the 2024 Nigerian Navy Ceremonial Sunset, held at the Naval Training Command Headquarters in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers State, where she was awarded the prestigious Pilot Wing.

Maigari, originally from Langtang North in Plateau State, was born in Kaduna. She began her journey in 2016, graduating from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a Sub Lieutenant. She later served aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity, marking the start of her remarkable career.

Speaking at the event, Maigari reflected on her inspiration to join the military, citing her upbringing in a military family. “I grew up in a military environment as my father was an officer in the Nigerian Air Force. From an early age, I aspired to become a military pilot and when the opportunity to join the navy arose, I did not hesitate,” she said.

Maigari was part of the first group of 20 female cadets trained at the NDA. She graduated as the Best Cadet in Academics and received the Gold Medal Navy award in 2016. In 2019, she excelled in her Sub Lieutenant Technical Course, earning recognition as the best overall.

Despite challenges during her training, Maigari remained determined. “There were moments during my training when it seemed I might not succeed in my studies or flight procedures, but I persevered. Becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy feels surreal and a significant milestone, not only for me but for all my female colleagues who can draw inspiration from this achievement,” she said. She encouraged young girls to pursue their dreams, especially in the military, emphasizing perseverance as the key to overcoming challenges.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, praised Maigari’s groundbreaking achievement during the award presentation. He highlighted her success as an inspiration for others and commended all award recipients for their dedication and hard work.

The event also showcased the navy’s achievements in 2024, including combating maritime crimes, fleet expansion, and infrastructure upgrades. Vice Admiral Ogalla outlined key accomplishments, such as launching Operation Delta Sanity to tackle oil theft and introducing new naval bases in Enugu and Makurdi.

Additionally, advancements in fleet recapitalization included acquiring patrol boats, helicopters, and ongoing indigenous shipbuilding efforts.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State commended the navy for its role in combating oil theft and safeguarding Nigeria’s economy. He pledged continued support from the state government, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to address the nation’s challenges.

Maigari expressed gratitude to her family, colleagues, and the navy for their support in her journey. Her achievement as the Nigerian Navy’s first female pilot serves as a beacon of inspiration for women in the military and beyond.

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