Nigeria Gets First Female Navy Aircraft Pilot

Lt. Changfe Maigari has made history as the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy (NN) since its establishment in 1964. Maigari, a native of Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, was born in Kaduna. She is married and has a daughter.

Her journey began in 2016 when she graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and was commissioned as a Sub Lieutenant. She later served aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity.

The milestone was celebrated on Friday at the 2024 NN Ceremonial Sunset held at the Naval Training Command Headquarters (HQ NAVTRAC) in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers State, where she was presented with the ‘Pilot Wing’ award.

In an interview at the event, Maigari reflected on her achievement, saying, “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 her journey to the Navy, where she was among the first group of 20 female regular cadets trained at the NDA. She graduated in 2016 as the Best Graduating Cadet in Academics, earning 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,” Maigari said.

“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,” she added.

Maigari expressed gratitude to God, her colleagues, and her family for their unwavering support in helping her achieve this historic milestone.