As Cross River State charts a new course for its aviation sector through Cally Air, one pioneering figure deserves a place in the conversation: Captain Cassandra Idagbo.
Captain Idagbo is not seeking a political appointment or a position within the airline. Rather, she represents a significant chapter in Cross River’s aviation history as the state’s first female pilot, breaking barriers in the skies long before Cally Air became a reality.
Popularly known as “Cassie Duke,” Captain Idagbo is the daughter of the late Chief Charles Effiom Duke, a renowned cultural leader. Her journey into aviation, however, was one she forged for herself. After studying French and briefly working as cabin crew, she pursued professional flight training in the United States, eventually earning her pilot’s wings.
As Cross River expands Cally Air and focuses on aircraft, routes, investment and passenger connectivity, the state must also recognise the importance of institutional memory. Aviation is not only about infrastructure and commercial operations. It is also about creating role models who can inspire young people, particularly girls, to believe that careers in aviation and STEM are within their reach.
Although Captain Idagbo currently holds no official position with Cally Air, her wealth of experience and pioneering story could offer valuable contributions to the sector. She could mentor aspiring young female aviators, support aviation scholarship initiatives and contribute to conversations around the future of aviation in Cross River.
Aviation stakeholders have often stressed the importance of preserving the contributions of pioneers, noting that the history of a state should not be rewritten every time there is a change in administration.
Captain Idagbo did not wait for Cross River to establish an airline before taking her place in the cockpit. She broke the barrier when the path was far less travelled.
Now, as Cross River looks to strengthen its presence in the aviation industry, the bigger question should not only be where Cally Air flies next, but how the state can use its history to inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers and aviation professionals.
And perhaps, most importantly, how many more Cassandras is Cross River prepared to inspire?
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