Lt. Changfe Maigari has broken new ground by becoming the first female pilot in the history of the Nigerian Navy, an institution established in 1964.
Born in Kaduna and hailing from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Maigari is married and has a daughter. Her military journey began in 2016 when she graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a Sub Lieutenant. She later served aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity.
During the 2024 NN Ceremonial Sunset held at the Naval Training Command Headquarters (HQ NAVTRAC) in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers State, Maigari was presented with the prestigious ‘Pilot Wing’ award. The event, which marked the end of the navy’s annual activities, also celebrated other outstanding personnel.
Speaking at the ceremony, Maigari reflected on her achievement, attributing her success to determination and perseverance. “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 also recounted being among the first group of 20 female regular cadets at the NDA, where she graduated as the Best Cadet in Academics and earned the Gold Medal Navy award. In 2019, she completed her 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,” she stated.
She encouraged young women aspiring to military careers to stay determined, saying, “I 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.”
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, praised Maigari and other awardees for their contributions to the navy. Highlighting the significance of the sunset ceremony, he said it was a time to reflect on the year’s accomplishments, honor outstanding personnel, and strengthen bonds among naval officers.
Ogalla also outlined the navy’s achievements in 2024, including successes in combating oil theft and maritime crimes, the establishment of new naval bases, and fleet upgrades with new patrol boats and helicopters. He mentioned ongoing indigenous shipbuilding projects and improved housing facilities for naval personnel across the country.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State commended the navy for its critical role in addressing oil theft and maritime crime. He pledged continued support for naval operations in the state, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in overcoming national challenges.
In related news, Deputy Superintendent of Customs (Pilot) Olanike Nafisat Balogun recently became the first female pilot in the Nigeria Customs Service, further marking significant strides for women in military and paramilitary sectors.