Air Peace Airlines has promoted one of its senior first officers, Chibuzo Mbanefo, on its Boeing 777 fleet to the position of captain.

 A first officer, also called the co-pilot, is an aviation professional who helps navigate and operate flights. They work in the cockpit with the captain to assist with air travel.

A statement by the head of corporate communications of the airline, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, made this known on Monday.

 He said 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; this, according to the airline, led to his promotion.

 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.

 While introducing SFO Mbanefo to the chairman of the airline, Allen Onyema, Capt. Gerald Udaya hailed his exceptional qualities, specifically noting that 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.

The pivotal moment of the ceremony was marked by the epaulette change, ceremoniously conferred by the chairman of the airline.

 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.

 “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.”

Reacting to the promotion, Mbanefo expressed deep gratitude to the chairman, his wife, his 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, but with Onyema’s support, Mbanefo said he transitioned from cadet to first officer, undergoing intensive training on the Boeing 737.