Flight Lieutenant Kafayat Omolara Sanni stands as a trailblazer in Nigerian aviation, recognized as the first female fighter jet pilot in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). Born in 1997, she has shattered gender barriers in a predominantly male profession and serves as a powerful inspiration for women aspiring to military aviation careers. Her accomplishments have significantly influenced Nigerian military aviation and highlight the growing inclusion of women in Africa’s defense forces.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Kafayat Omolara Sanni |
| Date of Birth | 1997 |
| Place of Birth | Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupations | Nigerian Air Force Flight Lieutenant, Fighter Jet Pilot, Instructor Pilot |
| Net Worth | N/A |
Early Life and Education
Born in Nigeria in 1997, Kafayat Sanni’s early life details are scarce, but her academic excellence and passion for aviation were evident from a young age.
She joined the Nigerian Air Force on December 22, 2012, with a clear ambition to become a pilot.
Sanni trained at the 401 Flying Training School in Kaduna, where she quickly distinguished herself, becoming the first in her class to complete solo flights.
Her dedication and skill culminated in her graduating as the top pilot in her class on September 16, 2017. This outstanding achievement earned her a place in an advanced training program in the United States.
Career
After excelling at the Nigerian Air Force training school, Sanni was selected for an 18-month advanced pilot training in the United States.
She began with specialized English language training at the Defense Language Institute English Language Center in Texas in early 2018. Later, she joined the Undergraduate Pilot Training class at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi.
Her training also included advanced aviation courses in Colombia and 14 months of combat helicopter training in South Africa, broadening her expertise across different aircraft types.
On October 15, 2019, Kafayat Sanni made history when she was officially commissioned as Nigeria’s first female fighter jet pilot during a ceremony at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The event was attended by top military and government officials, marking a significant moment in the 55-year history of the Nigerian Air Force.
Since earning her wings, Sanni has actively flown combat missions piloting the Alpha Jet and conducted training flights on the Super Mushshak aircraft. She also serves as an instructor pilot, training new pilots for the Nigerian Air Force.
She has expressed strong commitment to participating in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, particularly in combating Boko Haram in the Northeast, standing shoulder to shoulder with her male colleagues.
In 2025, Sanni was recognized as the Best Allied Student at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Accra.
She also received the Best Assistant Commandant Paper award during the college’s graduation ceremony, highlighting her continued excellence in military leadership and academics.
Personal Life
Kafayat Sanni keeps her private life largely out of the public eye.
She is admired for her cheerful and positive disposition, which helped her navigate the demanding challenges of pilot training.
Her international military mentors have praised her determination and upbeat attitude. Sanni encourages young women to pursue their ambitions boldly and to embrace every opportunity to excel.
Kafayat Sanni Net Worth
Details about Kafayat Sanni’s net worth are not publicly available. As a Flight Lieutenant in the Nigerian Air Force, her income is based on military pay scales, but no specific financial information has been disclosed.
Awards and Honors
- Pilot Wings Award (2019): Became the first female fighter jet pilot in the Nigerian Air Force.
- Top Graduating Pilot (2017): Graduated as the best pilot from the 401 Flying Training School.
- Best Allied Student (2025): Awarded at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College.
- Best Assistant Commandant Paper (2025): Received for outstanding academic and leadership performance at GAFCSC.
Kafayat Sanni’s achievements not only highlight her personal excellence but also symbolize Nigeria’s progress toward gender equality in the military.
Her success is a testament to the Nigerian Air Force’s investment in talent development and serves as an inspiration to women across Africa aiming to break new ground in traditionally male-dominated fields.
