From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu on Monday led other dignitaries including the Wife of the Vice President, the Wife of the Speaker, the Wives of Ministers, the Wives of Service Chiefs and Members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, to give a standing ovation to honour 2nd Lt Princess Oluchukwu Owowoh, a trailblazing Nigerian officer who recently made history by becoming the first Nigerian female officer to graduate from the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom.
She joined 134 other Officer Cadets in London for the Sovereign’s Parade, marking the completion of 44 weeks of rigorous training as part of Commissioning Course 232.
She returned to the country after she completed her training on the 12th of April, 2024 at the Royal Military Academy, Snadhurst, UK.
Mrs Tinubu said the ovation was practical demonstration of a meaningful way to celebrate the officer’s achievements and contributions.
According to a statement issued by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady praised the exceptional accomplishments of 24-year-old Owowoh, highlighting the officer as a shining example of the remarkable achievements Nigerian youth are capable of.
“Your determination and resilience are quite remarkable and you are an inspiration to the youth of this country. As a woman, the first who has made a mark in a male dominated field, I salute you.
“You have the entire world ahead of you. This is just the beginning. You are now a reference point for all Nigerian Youth. If you remain focused and positive, you will reach your goal in life.
“I thank the Nigerian Army for giving 2nd Lt Owowoh the opportunity even in this male dominated field. Thank you”.
In her remarks, the wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, Oghogho Musa noted that the training and graduation of Owowoh is a testament of improved female inclusion in the country.
The Commandant of the Nigeria Defence Academy, Maj. Gen OJ Ochai explained that Owowoh was the best of the 200 selected cadets fron the NDA.
He said the Officer excelled in three areas e, Academics, Military Subjects and Physical Fitness.
She received the prestigious Snadhurst Medal after the likes of Sir Winston Churchill, Prince Willams of Wales and Former head of State, General Yakubu Gowon.
He disclosed that she has since been assigned to the Nigerian Military Intelligence unit on her return to the country.
Owowoh’s journey began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna State in 2018, where she excelled academically and demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, earning First-class Honours in Biological Sciences.
Her graduation as the 190th Nigerian graduate from RMAS not only showcases her personal triumph but also underscores the enduring partnership between the UK and Nigeria in defense and security.
Owowoh’s achievement is a significant milestone in gender equality and diversity in the Armed Forces of Nigeria, inspiring other female cadets to pursue their dreams and excel in their military careers.