Meet Lt. Changfe Maigari: Nigeria’s 1st female Navy aircraft pilot
Lt. Changfe Maigari has etched her name in history as the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy since its establishment in 1964.
This remarkable achievement not only signifies a personal triumph but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for countless women aspiring to break barriers in male-dominated fields.
Born in Kaduna but hailing from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Maigari grew up in a military environment, with her father serving as an officer in the Nigerian Air Force.
This early exposure ignited her dream of becoming a military pilot. In 2016, she turned her aspirations into reality by graduating from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as part of the first cohort of 20 female regular cadets. She was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant and later served aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Unity.
Her journey to becoming a pilot culminated in her receiving the prestigious ‘Pilot Wing’ award during the Nigerian Navy’s 2024 Ceremonial Sunset held at the Naval Training Command Headquarters (HQ NAVTRAC) in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers State.
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Reflecting on her achievement, Maigari shared, “Becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy feels surreal. This milestone is not just for me but for all women who can draw inspiration from my journey.”
Maigari’s career has been marked by numerous accolades. She graduated as the Best Cadet in Academics at the NDA, earning the Gold Medal Navy award. In 2019, she completed her Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course as the overall best. Despite facing challenges during her training, she persevered, driven by an unwavering belief in her dream.
“During my training, there were moments when I doubted my ability to succeed, but I pushed through,” Maigari recalled. “I hope my success inspires young girls, both civilian and military, to pursue their dreams with resilience and determination.”
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, commended Maigari’s exceptional achievements during the award presentation. He noted that her accomplishment is a testament to the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to fostering excellence and inclusivity.
Maigari’s historic achievement comes at a time when the Nigerian Navy is making significant strides in maritime security and operational advancements.
Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted key initiatives, including combating oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and sea piracy. He also noted the navy’s fleet expansion, with new fast patrol boats, helicopters, and offshore vessels either recently acquired or under construction.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State lauded the navy’s efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment, particularly in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the navy’s operations to ensure economic stability.
As Maigari continues to soar, her story serves as a powerful reminder that dreams are attainable through hard work, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
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