Nigeria Police Honour First Female DIG Cecilia Ugowe at 90

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has honoured retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe, as she marked her 90th birthday, highlighting her record-setting career and contributions to policing in Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 30, and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the NPF described Ugowe as a pioneering officer whose service opened new ground for women in the Force.

According to the statement, Ugowe rose through the ranks at a time when senior leadership positions were largely inaccessible to women. Through what the Force described as merit, discipline, and commitment, she attained several historic milestones, becoming the first female Commissioner of Police, the first female Assistant Inspector-General of Police, the first woman to serve as Force Secretary, and the first female officer to reach the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police.

The NPF noted that her impact went beyond the offices she held, stating that her career helped expand participation and reinforce professionalism within the institution, while setting a clear standard that leadership is based on competence and integrity.

The statement added that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force, conveyed his goodwill to Ugowe, wishing her continued good health and peace as she marks 90 years of life an5d service.