Police celebrate first female DIG Cecilia Ugowe at 90

By Ayox Ojo/Abuja

The Nigeria Police Force has celebrated Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe, the first female Commissioner of Police (CP), the first female Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), and the first woman to hold the position of Force Secretary who retired as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police as she marks her 90th birthday anniversary.

CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force said this in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the statement, the life of Ugowe was defined by service, courage, and enduring contributions to policing in Nigeria.

“Retired DIG Ugowe occupies a distinguished place in the history of the Nigeria Police Force and her career stands as a tribute to perseverance and professional excellence, having risen through the ranks at a period when leadership opportunities for women in policing were limited.

“Through merit, discipline, and commitment, she earned appointments to senior command positions, ultimately attaining the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police, as the first female officer to attain such height. She was also the first female Commissioner of Police (CP), the first female Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), and the first woman to hold the position of Force Secretary.

“Beyond the offices she held, her legacy lies in the path she helped to open for future generations. Her service broadened participation, strengthened institutional professionalism, and demonstrated that leadership in policing is defined by competence, integrity, and dedication rather than convention.

“As the Force reflects on her life and career at this landmark age, it acknowledges the lasting value of her contributions, which continue to inspire officers particularly women to pursue excellence and leadership in service to the nation.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force, warmly wishes Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe, continued good health, peace, and love, as she celebrates ninety years of a life that has left an indelible mark on the institution and the nation,” Hundeyin said.