The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has publicly honoured Retired Deputy Inspector-General Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe as she marks her 90th birthday, praising a career that helped reshape leadership within the Nigeria Police Force. The Force issued a statement through its Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, to mark the milestone and underscore Ugowe’s lasting legacy.
Cecilia Ugowe’s pioneering career
Ugowe rose through the ranks at a time when senior positions for women in the police were rare. By merit and perseverance she reached several firsts for female officers: she was the first woman to serve as Commissioner of Police, the first female Assistant Inspector-General of Police and ultimately the first woman to attain the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police.
The Force noted that these appointments were earned through discipline, professional competence and unwavering commitment. In its message, the Nigeria Police Force said that Ugowe’s career broadened participation in policing and strengthened institutional professionalism, demonstrating that leadership depends on integrity and ability rather than convention.
Inspector-General Egbetokun, speaking in the Force’s congratulatory message, described Ugowe’s life as leaving an “indelible mark” on the organisation and the nation. The statement added that her example has opened the path for future generations of officers, particularly women, to pursue leadership roles within the service.
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force Public Relations Officer, said the Force felicitates with Retired DIG Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe as she celebrates a life defined by service, courage and enduring contributions to policing in Nigeria. He reiterated the IGP’s wishes for her continued good health, peace and love on reaching ninety years.
Observers say Ugowe’s achievements should be viewed in the wider context of gender inclusion in security institutions. Her rise challenged prevailing norms at the time and set a visible precedent for merit-based promotion. Many senior officers and female recruits have since pointed to her career as a source of inspiration.
Her appointments to senior command positions came during a period when leadership opportunities for women were limited. That makes her record significant not only for the ranks she attained but for the doors she opened. The Force’s statement emphasised that her legacy extends beyond titles to the institutional culture she helped shape.
As Nigeria and other BRICS+ partners seek to modernise their public institutions, stories such as Ugowe’s are often highlighted as examples of progress within security services. The recognition from the IGP also underlines the Nigeria Police Force’s public commitment to celebrating notable service and promoting role models who embody competence and dedication.
At ninety, Retired DIG Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe remains a respected figure in policing circles. The Force closed its message by extending warm wishes for her well-being and by acknowledging the lasting value of her contributions, which continue to inspire officers to pursue excellence in service to the nation.
Key Takeaways:
- Retired Deputy Inspector-General Cecilia Ugowe celebrated on her 90th birthday by IGP Olukayode Egbetokun.
- Ugowe was the first woman to serve as Commissioner of Police, Assistant IGP and Deputy IGP, opening paths for female leadership.
- The Nigeria Police Force praised her service, discipline and enduring influence on institutional professionalism.
