In a groundbreaking achievement, Lt. Changfe Maigari has made history as the first female aircraft pilot in the Nigerian Navy.
The milestone was celebrated on Friday, December 13, 2024, during the Nigerian Navy’s Ceremonial Sunset at the Naval Training Command Headquarters in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers.
Maigari, who was awarded the prestigious ‘Pilot Wing’ award, has become a trailblazer, showing that determination can break barriers in the military.
She is the first woman to earn this honor in the Nigerian Navy since its formation in 1964.
A Journey of Perseverance and Determination
Born in Kaduna and hailing from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau, Lt. Changfe Maigari’s journey to becoming the first female naval pilot is a story of perseverance, ambition, and grit.
Growing up in a military family, with her father serving as an officer in the Nigerian Air Force, Maigari was exposed to the military environment from a young age.
Speaking to the press during the ceremony, Maigari shared her early inspiration, saying, “From an early age, I aspired to become a military pilot, and when the opportunity to join the navy arose, I did not hesitate.”
Her path to success began in 2016 when she graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and was commissioned as a Sub Lieutenant.
Breaking Barriers: The Road to Success
Maigari’s journey has not been without challenges. She recalled moments during her training when it seemed that failure might be inevitable.
“There were moments during my training when it seemed I might not succeed in my studies or flight procedures, but I persevered,” she said.
She graduated as the Best Graduating Cadet in Academics from the NDA and earned the Gold Medal Navy award. In 2019, she further distinguished herself by completing her Sub Lieutenant Technical Course as the overall best.
Her journey culminated in becoming the first female pilot of the Nigerian Navy, a historic feat she describes as “surreal” but deeply significant.
“This milestone is not only for me but for all my female colleagues who can draw inspiration from this achievement,” she remarked.
Maigari’s success is not just a personal triumph but also a beacon of hope for young girls aspiring to break into the military, particularly the Nigerian Navy.
Inspiring the Next Generation
With her accomplishments, Maigari aims to inspire young women, particularly those from civilian backgrounds, to pursue careers in the military.
“I hope my success motivates young civilian girls aspiring to join the military to persist because perseverance can overcome any challenge in life,” she said.
Her message is clear: hard work, perseverance, and the courage to follow one’s dreams can break through even the most daunting barriers.
Support and Recognition from the Nigerian Navy
Lt. Maigari’s historic achievement has been widely recognized within the Nigerian Navy. The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, praised her for her remarkable achievement, highlighting her exemplary commitment to the Navy’s values.
During the award ceremony, Ogalla commended Maigari and others for their hard work and contributions to the Navy’s success.
“This moment is about reflecting on our accomplishments, strengthening comradeship, and honoring those who have distinguished themselves through hard work,” Ogalla said.
In addition to Maigari’s achievement, the Navy also celebrated its significant strides in combating maritime crimes, such as oil theft and piracy, throughout 2024.
The Nigerian Navy’s 2024 Milestones
The 2024 Navy Ceremonial Sunset also marked the conclusion of a year filled with remarkable progress. Ogalla highlighted the Navy’s significant efforts in fighting oil theft and maritime crimes, particularly through operations like Operation Delta Sanity.
“Operation Delta Sanity has successfully curtailed oil theft and maritime crimes, increasing Nigeria’s daily crude oil production,” Ogalla noted.
The Nigerian Navy also made major strides in fleet recapitalization, acquiring two 32-meter fast patrol boats, an offshore survey vessel, and additional helicopters. These acquisitions, along with the planned delivery of new vessels and equipment, demonstrate the Navy’s commitment to strengthening its operational capabilities.
