Lt. Changfe Maigari has made a significant mark in history as the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy (NN) since its establishment in 1964. Originally from Langtang North Local Government Area in Plateau State and born in Kaduna, Maigari is a married mother of one. 

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

During the 2024 NN Ceremonial Sunset held at the Naval Training Command Headquarters (HQ NAVTRAC) in Ebube-Eleme, Rivers, she was honored with the ‘Pilot Wing’ award.

In a conversation with NAN following the event, Maigari shared that she reached this milestone by completing her basic pilot training and meeting all necessary 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 described how her aspiration to become a naval officer was realized upon her selection as one of the inaugural twenty female regular cadets at the NDA. 

Maigari graduated in 2016 as the top academic cadet, receiving the Gold Medal Navy award, and in 2019, she completed her Sub Lieutenant Technical Course with top honors.

“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.

Maigari expressed her gratitude to God, her colleagues, and her family for their steadfast support in enabling her to achieve the significant milestone of becoming the first female pilot in the Nigerian Navy.

In presenting the award, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, commended Ms. Maigari and the other recipients for their exceptional accomplishments.

He emphasized that the sunset ceremony is a time-honored naval tradition signifying the culmination of the year's activities.

“It is a moment to reflect on our 2024 accomplishments, strengthen comradeship and honour personnel who distinguished themselves through hard work.’’

The Chief of Naval Operations reported significant progress in combating maritime crimes, including oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and sea piracy, throughout 2024.

“In January, the navy launched Operation Delta Sanity which successfully curtailed oil theft and maritime crimes, increasing Nigeria’s daily crude oil production; several oil companies reported achieving a 100 per cent terminal factor.

“Two new naval bases were established in Enugu and Makurdi; the Shagunu outpost was operationalised; we also incorporated a maritime component into Operation Fansar Yamma in the North West.’’

In June, notable fleet modernization achievements included the procurement of two 32-meter fast patrol boats, an offshore survey vessel, and two helicopters.

“In November, three additional helicopters were launched and two 38-metre Sea Eagle fast patrol boats were delivered.

“By January, we expect delivery of three 46-metre fast boats from China, while two 76-metre Offshore Patrol Vessels under construction in Turkey are nearing completion.

“Our indigenous shipbuilding efforts include two 38-metre Seaward Defence Boats, three tugboats and several patrol boats, all scheduled for delivery in 2025,” Ogalla said.

He also cited improvements to barracks in Lagos, Benue, Enugu, and Ogun States, and the ongoing construction of additional personnel housing in Abuja and Lagos naval bases.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers commended the Nigerian Navy for its efforts in combating oil theft, illegal bunkering, and pipeline vandalism.

He recognized the significant challenges posed by criminals who sabotage the national economy through attacks on oil and gas infrastructure.

“Eliminating these illegal activities in our maritime environment is no small task, especially as 90 per cent of our oil and gas infrastructure is located in the Niger Delta swamps.

“The Rivers Government has always supported and collaborated with the Nigerian Navy and will continue to do so to facilitate its operations in the state.

“As we approach 2025, Nigerians have high expectations and it is vital that we work together to confront and overcome the challenges ahead,” Fubara said.