The first Nigeria Navy female pilot since it’s inception in 1964, Lt. Changfe Maigari has revealed her excitement at achieving the feat.
Lt. Maigari who was presented with the ‘Pilot Wing’ award during the 2024 NN Ceremonial Sunset at the Naval Training Command Headquarters, HQ NAVTRAC in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers, Friday said her success could inspire more girls to sign up for military service.
“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
“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,” said Lt. Maigari a mother of one daughter.
Her remarkable journey began in 2016 when she graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and was commissioned as a Sub Lieutenant.
Subsequently, she served aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity.
Maigari said that she achieved the milestone after completing her basic pilot training and fulfilling all requirements.
“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 recounted how her dream of becoming a naval officer materialised when she was selected among the first group of 20 female regular cadets trained at the NDA.
Maigari said she graduated in 2016 as the Best Graduating Cadet in Academics, earned the Gold Medal Navy award, and in 2019, completed her Sub Lieutenant Technical Course as the overall best.
She expressed gratitude to God, her colleagues and her family for their unwavering support in helping her to achieve the milestone of becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy. With NAN reports
