LAGOS – Air Peace has announced the elevation of Senior First Officer (SFO), Chibuzo Mbanefo to the rank of Captain on its Boeing 777 fleet.

The Head of Corporate Communications at Air Peace, Dr Ejike Ndiulo disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

It said 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 now officially assumed the esteemed position of Captain.

While introducing SFO Mbanefo to the Chairman, Air Peace Limited, Dr. Allen Onyema and Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide, Capt. Gerald Udaya extolled his exceptional qualities.

Specifically, Udaya 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 program.

He expressed immense pride in Mbanefo’s elevation to the left seat as Captain, a testament to his knowledge, competence, and proficiency.

The epoch moment of the ceremony was marked by the epaulette change, ceremoniously conferred by Dr. Onyema and Mrs. Olajide, symbolising Mbanefo’s new status as Captain.

On his part, 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.”

While emphasising the importance of humility, continuous learning, and prioritising safety, Dr. Onyema encouraged Capt. Mbanefo to embrace his new role with responsibility.

“it is only your character that determines your altitude in life.” He expressed confidence in Mbanefo’s ability to lead and uphold Air Peace’s commitment to excellence and safety,” Onyema said.

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 speak, Captain Mbanefo expressed deep gratitude to the Chairman, his wife, 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.

He said with the Chairman’s support, 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 path—a decision celebrated in this elevation ceremony.