Lieutenant Changfe Maigari has made history as the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy (NN) since its inception in 1964.
The female pilot, Navy Lieutenant Changfe Maigari, was decorated at the Nigerian Navy Sunset and Awards Night at the Naval Headquarters Training Command at Ebubu-Eleme, Rivers State, on Friday, 13 December 2024.
Her journey to making history
Maigari hails from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau but was born in Kaduna. She explains that growing up as the daughter of an officer in the Nigerian Navy inspired her decision to join the Navy.
“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 recounted how her dream of becoming a naval officer materialised when she was selected as one of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s pioneering female cadets.
Maigari went on to excel by graduating in 2016 as the Best Graduating Cadet in Academics, earning the Gold Medal Navy award, and completing her Sub Lieutenant Technical Course as the overall best in 2019.
In an interview, Maigari explains that she achieved the milestone of being the first female pilot in the Navy after completing her basic pilot training and fulfilling all requirements.
Maigari was then presented with the “Pilot Wing” award during the 2024 Nigerian Navy Ceremonial Sunset at the Naval Training Command Headquarters (HQ NAVTRAC) in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers.
“Becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy feels surreal and a significant milestone, not only for me but all my female colleagues who can draw inspiration from this achievement.”
“I also hope my success motivates young civilian girls aspiring to join the military, particularly the Nigerian Navy, to persist because perseverance can overcome any challenge in life,” Maigari advised.
She expressed gratitude to God, her colleagues and her family for their unwavering support in helping her achieve the milestone of becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy.
Minister of Women Affairs sends a congratulatory message
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman -Ibrahim, has congratulated Lieutenant Maigari.
In a statement, the Minister said Lt. Maigari’s achievement is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and exceptional talent.
“Her strives will inspire the next generations of young women across Nigeria to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face and know they can break barriers”.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasised the importance of empowering women in all sectors, including the military. She also commended the Nigerian Navy for its commitment to gender equality and for providing opportunities for women to excel in their careers.
“This groundbreaking accomplishment by Lt. Maigari serves as an inspiration and a source of pride for the entire nation,” she added.
The Honourable Minister also wishes Lt. Maigari continued success in her aviation career and looks forward to witnessing many more women achieve such remarkable feats in the future.
