Officer Cadet Owowoh Oluchukwu has etched her name in history as the first Nigerian female officer to graduate from the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom. At the age of 24, Oluchukwu joined 134 other Officer Cadets in London for the Sovereign’s Parade, marking the culmination of 44 weeks of rigorous training as part of Commissioning Course 232.
This groundbreaking achievement was announced by the Senior Communications and Public Diplomacy Officer of the British High Commission in Abuja, Atinuke Akande-Alegbe, on Friday. Oluchukwu’s journey to this historic moment began at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna State in 2018, where she quickly distinguished herself.
Throughout her years at the academy, Oluchukwu consistently shattered barriers, from being appointed as Cadet Lance Corporal in her second year to assuming the prestigious role of Company Senior Under Officer Charlie in her fifth year. In her fourth year, she excelled academically, earning First-class Honours in Biological Sciences, further demonstrating her dedication and capability.
Oluchukwu’s graduation as the 190th Nigerian graduate from RMAS not only marks a personal triumph but also underscores the enduring partnership between the UK and Nigeria in defense and security. Speaking of her historic achievement, Oluchukwu expressed profound gratitude, stating, “It is a profound honour to be the first Nigerian female officer to commission 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, and to making a positive difference in the world.”
Oluchukwu’s accomplishment adds to the legacy of Nigerian officers at RMAS, joining notable figures like former Nigerian Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, and Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye.