Air Peace, Nigeria’s foremost airline has elevated Senior First Officer Chibuzo Mbanefo to the rank of Captain on its Boeing 777 fleet.
Captain Mbanefo has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and commitment to upholding Air Peace’s high operational standards. After undergoing rigorous training and meeting all regulatory requirements, he has officially assumed the position of Captain, reinforcing Air Peace’s legacy of nurturing top-tier aviation professionals.
While introducing SFO Mbanefo to the Chairman/CEO of Air Peace Limited, Allen Onyema and Chief Operating Officer, Oluwatoyin Olajide, Capt. Gerald Udaya extolled his exceptional qualities. Specifically, he noted that SFO Mbanefo had completed over 4,800 flight hours on the right-hand side of the B777 and acknowledged his performance in the rigorous command upgrade training program. He expressed immense pride in Mbanefo’s elevation to the left seat as Captain, a testament to his knowledge, competence, and proficiency.
The pivotal moment of the ceremony was the epaulette change, ceremoniously conferred by Onyema and Olajide, symbolising Mbanefo’s new status as Captain. Reflecting on Mbanefo’s journey, Capt. Iwo-Brown urged him to maintain a disciplined approach, adhere strictly to aviation protocols, and never compromise safety—a cornerstone for sustained success in the industry.
In an emotion-laden speech, Captain Mbanefo expressed deep gratitude to the Chairman, his wife, his family, and the flight operations management, acknowledging their unwavering support. He fondly recalled his early days in aviation before joining Air Peace as a flight dispatcher. With the Chairman’s support, Capt. Mbanefo said he transitioned from Cadet to First Officer, undergoing intensive training on the Boeing 737. Although he could have progressed to Captain on the B737, his passion for the B777 guided his career, a decision celebrated in this elevation ceremony.
Onyema congratulated the newly promoted Captain and reaffirmed Air Peace’s commitment to empowering Nigerian pilots: “At Air Peace, we believe in recognising and rewarding excellence. Captain Mbanefo has exhibited outstanding professionalism and dedication, and we are incredibly proud to see him take this next step in his career. This promotion aligns with our mission to build local capacity and ensure our flight operations remain world-class.”
While emphasising the importance of humility, continuous learning, and prioritising safety, Dr. Onyema encouraged Capt. Mbanefo to embrace his new role with responsibility. Pointedly he said, “it is only your character that determines your attitude in life.” He expressed confidence in Mbanefo’s ability to lead and uphold Air Peace’s commitment to excellence and safety.
As Air Peace continues to expand its fleet and route network, recently adding new destinations and reinforcing its long-haul capabilities with its Boeing 777 aircraft, this promotion aligns with the airline’s vision to provide safe, world-class air travel while empowering Nigerian aviators. – Inside Business