Changfe Maigari becomes Nigerian Navy’s first female pilot

Lt. Changfe Maigari breaks barriers as the Nigerian Navy’s first female pilot, inspiring women and young girls to pursue military careers.

 

[dropcap]I[/dropcap]n a groundbreaking achievement, Lt. Changfe Maigari has become the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy (NN) since its establishment in 1964.

Hailing from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau and born in Kaduna, Maigari’s journey to this historic milestone reflects dedication, resilience, and excellence.

 

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Her accomplishment was formally recognised during the 2024 Nigerian Navy Ceremonial Sunset at the Naval Training Command Headquarters (HQ NAVTRAC) in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers State.

At the ceremony, Maigari was presented with the prestigious ‘Pilot Wing’ award after successfully completing her basic pilot training and meeting all required standards.

Maigari’s path began in 2016 when she graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a Sub Lieutenant.

She was part of the first group of 20 female cadets trained at the NDA and emerged as the Best Graduating Cadet in Academics, earning the Gold Medal Navy Award.

Her career milestones include serving aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity and completing her Sub Lieutenant Technical Course in 2019 as the overall best.

Despite challenges during her training, Maigari demonstrated perseverance, which she credits for her success.

“There were moments during my training when it seemed I might not succeed in my studies or flight procedures, but I persevered,” she said.

Growing up in a military environment—her father was an officer in the Nigerian Air Force—Maigari nurtured a childhood dream of becoming a military pilot. When the opportunity arose to join the navy, she seized it without hesitation.

“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 said during an interview.

Maigari hopes her success will inspire other women, especially young girls aspiring to join the military, to pursue their dreams with determination.

“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 advised.

Expressing gratitude, Maigari acknowledged the support of God, her colleagues, and her family, especially her husband and daughter, who have been integral to her journey.