Lt. Changfe Maigari has etched her name in history as the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy, marking a groundbreaking achievement since the institution’s founding in 1964.
The trailblazing officer, hailing from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, was officially presented with the coveted ‘Pilot Wing’ award during the Nigerian Navy Ceremonial Sunset held at the Naval Training Command Headquarters (HQ NAVTRAC) in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers State, on Friday.
Maigari’s journey to this historic milestone began in 2016 when she graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as part of the inaugural group of 20 female regular cadets. She was commissioned as a Sub Lieutenant and served aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the event, Maigari attributed her achievement to perseverance and the unwavering support of her family, colleagues, and faith.
“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, who graduated as the Best Cadet in Academics and earned the Gold Medal Navy award in 2016, also excelled in her Sub Lieutenant Technical Course, emerging as the overall best in 2019.
“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. I hope my success inspires young girls to pursue their dreams relentlessly,” she added.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, commended Maigari and other award recipients for their exemplary service. He highlighted the event as an opportunity to celebrate the Navy’s achievements in 2024 and foster unity among personnel.
“This ceremony reflects on our accomplishments, strengthens camaraderie, and honors personnel who distinguished themselves through hard work,” Ogalla said.
Ogalla detailed the Navy’s efforts to enhance maritime security, including the success of Operation Delta Sanity, which curbed oil theft and maritime crimes, boosting crude oil production. He also noted significant strides in fleet expansion, with the acquisition of fast patrol boats, helicopters, and indigenous shipbuilding initiatives.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State lauded the Navy’s role in combating oil theft and illegal bunkering, pledging continued collaboration to safeguard national assets.
“Eliminating these illegal activities is no small task, and the Rivers Government remains committed to supporting the Navy’s operations in the state,” Fubara stated.
As the Nigerian Navy celebrates this historic milestone, Maigari’s achievement stands as a testament to resilience and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring female officers across the nation.