Lt. Changfe Maigari has made history as the first female
pilot in the Nigerian Navy, NN since its inception in 1964.
Maigari, who is married with a daughter, hails from Langtang
North Local Government Area of Plateau but was born in Kaduna.
Her remarkable journey began in 2016 when she graduated from
the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and was commissioned as a Sub Lieutenant.
Subsequently, she served aboard the Nigerian Navy Ship
Unity.
NAN reports that Maigari was presented with the ‘Pilot Wing’
award during the 2024 NN Ceremonial Sunset at the Naval Training Command
Headquarters, HQ NAVTRAC in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers, on Friday.
In an interview with NAN on the sidelines of the event,
Maigari said that she achieved the milestone after completing her basic pilot
training and fulfilling all requirements.
“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 how her dream of becoming a naval officer
materialised when she was selected among the first group of 20 female regular
cadets trained at the NDA.
Maigari said she graduated in 2016 as the Best Graduating
Cadet in Academics, earned the Gold Medal Navy award, and in 2019, 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
“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,” Maigari advised.
She expressed gratitude to God, her colleagues and her
family for their unwavering support in helping her to achieve the milestone of
becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on Areatatafo.com.ng to reach thousands of our daily users
