The first Nigerian woman to complete military training at the prestigious Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, United Kingdom, 2nd Lt Princess Oluchukwu Owowoh has returned home to the warm embrace of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The 24 year old young officer completed her training on April 12, 2024.
Impressed by Owowoh’s outstanding performance, Senator Tinubu hailed her as a shining example of the remarkable achievements possible for Nigerian youths. She commended Owowoh’s determination and resilience, particularly noting the significance of her success as a woman excelling in a predominantly male domain.
She said to her,
Your determination and resilience are quite remarkable and you are an inspiration to the youths 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 youths. If you remain focused and positive, you will reach your goals in life.
Standing Ovation
In a rare act of honour, the First Lady of Nigeria requested all the guests which included wives of high state officials; wives of the Vice President, the Speaker of the parliament, ministers and senior military officers to stand up in standing ovation for Ms Owowoh.
She added,
I thank the Nigerian Army for giving 2nd Lt Owowoh the opportunity even in this male-dominated field. Thank you.
Senator Tinubu urged Owowoh to view her graduation as just the beginning of a promising journey. She encouraged her to remain focused and positive, assuring her that she is now a beacon of inspiration for Nigerian youths.
Responding to the august gathering, the young officer, Princess Owowoh replied,
It is a profound honour to be the first Nigerian female officer to be commissioned from the esteemed Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. This achievement is not mine alone, but a testament to the unwavering support of my family, mentors, instructors, and countless individuals who believed in me every step of the way. As I look ahead to the future, I am committed to representing Nigeria with pride.
Graduation Day At Sandhurst
Her Sandhurst graduation ceremony in April was attended by dignitaries including representative of His Majesty, King Charles III, French Général d’armée, Pierre SchilI.
The parade marked the epic end of 44 weeks of intensive mental and physical training for the officer cadets. She is part of Course 232.
Several prominent Nigerian military officers were trained at Sandhurst, including former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon. Great names like Winston Churchill and Prince William, the Prince of Wales also passed through Sandhurst.
It Started At Nigerian Defence Academy
Princess Owowoh joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Zaria, in 2018.
In her second year, she was appointed a Cadet Lance Corporal; in the fourth year, a Cadet Sergeant, and in her fifth year, the Company Senior Under Officer Charlie (CSUO C). She held this last appointment with two other female counterparts and made history as the first female to assume the position of CSUO in the academy.
During her fourth year, she successfully completed the Academics Wing of the course with a First Class Honors in Biological Sciences.
Posting
2nd Lt. Oluchukwu Owowoh has since been posted to the Nigerian Military Intelligence, unit of the army.
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