Sixty years after the establishment of the Nigerian Navy in 1964, history was made with Lt Changfe Maigari becoming the first female pilot of the nation’s Navy.
According to reports, Maigari, hails from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau. She is married with a daughter.
Her remarkable journey in the Nigerian Navy began in 2016 when she graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA. She was commissioned as a Sub Lieutenant upon graduation.
Subsequently, Maigari served on the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity.
According to NAN reports, Maigari was on Friday, presented with the ‘Pilot Wing’ award during the 2024 NN Ceremonial Sunset at the Naval Training Command Headquarters, HQ NAVTRAC in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers.
Speaking after the event, Maigari noted that she achieved the milestone after completing her basic pilot training and fulfilling all requirements, NAN reported.
She said, “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.’’
Maigari recounted how her dream of becoming a naval officer materialized when she was selected among the first group of 20 female regular cadets trained at the NDA.
“I graduated in 2016 as the Best Graduating Cadet in Academics. And earned the Gold Medal Navy award, and in 2019. I completed the Sub Lieutenant Technical Course as the overall best.
“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,” Maigari advised.
She also expressed gratitude to God, her colleagues and her family for their unwavering support. She thanked them for helping her to achieve the milestone of becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy.
source: Daily Post
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