Air Peace has announced the promotion of its senior first officer Chibuzo Mbanefo to the rank of captain on its Boeing 777 fleet.
Spokesman for the airline, Dr Ejike Ndiulo said in a release that Mbanefo had 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 now officially assumed the esteemed position of Captain, reinforcing Air Peace’s legacy of nurturing top-tier aviation professionals,” the statement said.
Speaking at the coronation ceremony held at the airline’s headquarters in Lagos, the chairman and chief executive officer of Air Peace, Mr Allen Onyema congratulated the newly promoted captain and reaffirmed Air Peace’s commitment to empowering Nigerian pilots
“At Air Peace, we believe in recognizing 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,” Onyema said
While emphasising the importance of humility, continuous learning and prioritising safety, Onyema encouraged Mbanefo to embrace his new role with responsibility.
“It it is only your character that determines your altitude in life,” he added and expressed confidence in Mbanefo’s ability to lead and uphold the airline’s commitment to excellence and safety.
Capt. Gerald Udaya who introduced the B777 fleet captain to Onyema and the chief operating officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide, specifically noted that Mbanefo had completed over 4,800 flight hours on the right-hand side of the B777.
He acknowledged Mbanefo’s exceptional performance in the rigorous command upgrade training programme saying Mbanefo’s elevation to the left seat as Captain “is a testament to his knowledge, competence, and proficiency.”
The high point of the event was the decoration of the pilot with his new status as Captain.
In his appreciation speech, Mbanefo expressed deep gratitude to the chairman, the company and the flight operations management for their unwavering support.
He recalled his early days in aviation before joining Air Peace as a flight dispatcher, saying with Onyema’s support, he (Mbanefo) “transitioned from cadet to first officer, undergoing intensive training on the Boeing 737.”
Although he could have progressed to Captain on the B737, he said his passion for the B777 guided his career path.
