Changfe Maigari Makes History as Nigeria’s First Female Navy Aircraft Pilot

Lt. Changfe Maigari has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy since its establishment in 1964. Born in Kaduna and hailing from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Lt. Maigari’s remarkable journey into the naval aviation sector is a testament to perseverance and dedication.

Her military career began in 2016 after graduating from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a Sub Lieutenant. She was among the first cohort of 20 female cadets admitted into the academy and emerged as the best-graduating cadet in academics, earning the prestigious Gold Medal Navy award. Her career has included serving aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity and completing a Sub Lieutenant Technical Course in 2019, where she also excelled as the overall best participant.

Lt. Maigari was officially recognized as a navy pilot during the 2024 Nigerian Navy Ceremonial Sunset held at the Naval Training Command Headquarters in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers State. At the event, she received the ‘Pilot Wing’ award after completing basic pilot training and fulfilling all necessary requirements to become a certified naval aviator.

Reflecting on her achievement, Lt. Maigari credited her upbringing in a military family for igniting her aspirations. “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.

While recounting the challenges faced during her training, she expressed gratitude to God, her family, and her colleagues for their support. She also encouraged young women, both in and outside the military, to remain determined in pursuing their dreams. “Becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy feels surreal and a significant milestone, not just for me but for all my female colleagues. I hope my success inspires young girls to persist because perseverance can overcome any challenge,” she said.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, presented the award and praised Lt. Maigari for her exceptional achievements. He also commended other awardees for their contributions and highlighted the navy’s accomplishments in 2024, including combating oil theft, sea piracy, and other maritime crimes. The ceremonial sunset event, a longstanding naval tradition, marked the close of the year’s activities.

Lt. Changfe Maigari’s groundbreaking achievement sets a new benchmark for gender inclusion and excellence in the Nigerian Navy, inspiring a new generation of women to break barriers in military service.