LAGOS – Air Peace, has promoted Chibuzo Mbanefo, its Senior First Officer (SFO) to the rank of Captain on its Boeing 777 fleet.
A statement by Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, Head, Corporate Communications, Air Peace, said that Mbanefo who started his career as a flight dispatcher, has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and commitment to upholding the airline’s high operational standards, leading to his elevation.
The promotion ceremony took place at the airline’s headquarters in Lagos.
The statement hinted that after undergoing rigorous training and meeting all regulatory requirements, Mbanefo has now officially assumed the position of captain, reinforcing Air Peace’s legacy of nurturing top-tier aviation professionals.
While introducing SFO Mbanefo to Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman and Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Air Peace, respectively, Capt. Gerald Udaya extolled Mbanefo’s 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 exceptional performance in the rigorous command upgrade training programme.
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 marked by 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 his speech, Mbanefo expressed deep gratitude to the Chairman, his wife, family, and the flight operations management, acknowledging their unwavering support.
He recalled his early days in aviation before joining Air Peace as a flight dispatcher.
With Onyema’s support, Mbanefo said he transitioned from cadet to first officer, undergoing intensive training on the Boeing 737.
The statement emphasised that Mbanefo could have progressed to captain on the B737, his passion for the B777 guided his career path—a decision celebrated in this elevation ceremony.
In his remark, Onyema congratulated the newly promoted captain, and reaffirmed Air Peace’s commitment to empowering Nigerian pilots.
He said: “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, Onyema encouraged Mbanefo to embrace his new role with responsibility.
He expressed confidence in Mbanefo’s ability to lead and uphold Air Peace’s commitment to excellence and safety.
Others present at the elevation ceremony were the airline’s flight operations management team, Mbanefo’s wife, family members and well-wishers.
“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,” the statement added.
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