By Milcah Tanimu
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has lauded Second Lt. Oluchukwu Owowoh for making history as the first Nigerian female cadet to graduate from the Royal Military Academy (RMA) Sandhurst, United Kingdom. Mrs. Tinubu, welcoming Owowoh along with Maj.-Gen. John Ochia, the Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), to the State House on Monday, hailed her achievement as remarkable and divinely ordained.
Addressing Owowoh, Mrs. Tinubu expressed admiration for her journey of aspiration, resilience, and determination, attributing her success not merely to hard work but to divine selection. She offered heartfelt prayers for Owowoh’s continued success and emphasized the significance of her accomplishment for both current and future generations of Nigerians.
In addition to commending Owowoh’s individual triumph, Mrs. Tinubu extended gratitude to the Nigerian Army for recognizing and facilitating her opportunity to excel. She highlighted the importance of such milestones in opening doors for other women and encouraged Owowoh to serve as a positive role model for youth across the nation.
Major-General Ochia echoed Mrs. Tinubu’s sentiments, underscoring the exceptional nature of Owowoh’s achievement within the historically male-dominated field of military training. He emphasized the rigorous selection process Owowoh underwent and her subsequent academic and physical excellence, surpassing male counterparts and earning recognition as the best among her peers.
Mrs. Oghogho Musa, President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), expressed heartfelt appreciation on behalf of fellow officers’ wives for the Nigerian Army’s support in fostering Owowoh’s success. She emphasized the broader implications of Owowoh’s achievement in promoting gender inclusion and expanding opportunities for women in key military roles.
In response, Owowoh expressed gratitude for the support and mentorship she received throughout her journey and pledged to continue striving for excellence. She assured the nation of her commitment to delivering her best in service to her country, bolstered by the backing of the Nigerian Army.
Owowoh’s graduation from the RMA on April 12 marked a significant milestone in her military career, highlighting her exceptional performance and dedication. As the first Nigerian female cadet to achieve this distinction, Owowoh’s success serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring military personnel across the nation.