A Journey of Resilience and Excellence
Recently, on Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the nation reflected on the sacrifices and bravery of the Nigerian military. It is also essential to celebrate the women who have significantly contributed to the defense and progress of the country. Since their integration into the Nigerian Armed Forces in 1958, women have proven their strength, resilience, and determination, reshaping the military landscape in ways that were once unimaginable in this traditionally male-dominated field.
The path for women in the military was not easily paved. For decades, they have had to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and assert their rightful place in the Armed Forces. Despite these challenges, their contributions have added invaluable diversity and fresh perspectives to both national and international military missions.
Women in the Nigerian military have not only proven their capability but have also become trailblazers, inspiring future generations of young women to follow in their footsteps. Among the most notable figures is the late Major General Aderonke Kali, who made history as the first Nigerian woman to attain the rank of Major General. Her groundbreaking role as the pioneer female Medical Corps Commander in the Nigerian Army remains a legacy that continues to inspire. Kali passed away in November 2023, but her influence on the military’s culture of inclusion endures.
Another notable figure in Nigerian military history is Major General Abimbola Amusu, who commanded the Nigerian Army Medical Corps from 2015 to 2019. As the second female officer in history to command this prestigious corps, she followed in Kali’s footsteps, making remarkable strides for women in leadership within the military.
Captain Josephine Okwuekeleke Tolefe’s journey is also legendary. As the first female commissioned officer in the Nigerian Army, she set a groundbreaking precedent in 1960 by becoming the first woman to be promoted to the rank of Army Captain. Her legacy paved the way for countless women to serve and rise through the ranks.
Flying Officer Tolulope Arotile, who tragically passed away in 2020, was the first female combat helicopter pilot in the Nigerian Air Force. Her exceptional career demonstrated that women could excel in the most challenging and high-risk areas of military service.
In addition to these trailblazing women, others like Mojisola Adekunle Obasanjo, who ran for presidency in 2003, and Lieutenant Oluchukwu Owowoh, who became the first female Nigerian to train at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, have shown that the influence of Nigerian women in the military goes beyond combat roles and into leadership and national governance.
The military’s embrace of women is not just symbolic. Their presence has been essential in operational contexts, contributing to security, humanitarian efforts, and peacekeeping missions.
According to Major General Uwem Bassey, women now make up around 10% of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and their roles span across various sectors. “We see them everywhere,” Bassey affirms, emphasizing that women in the military perform the same duties as their male counterparts, with many excelling in areas such as logistics, administration, and medical services. Women are increasingly becoming central to military operations, particularly in peacebuilding and security roles.
In fact, a recent security women report highlighted that Nigerian women contribute to nearly 28% of the country’s peace process initiatives. The inclusion of more women in the military has enhanced the Armed Forces’ ability to tackle complex challenges, from counter-terrorism operations to peacekeeping in conflict zones. As this number continues to grow, the hope is that it will further transform the military into a space where women’s contributions are fully recognized and valued.
During an interview on the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, a female officer shared her personal experiences of serving in the military. “For me, being in the military is the best thing that has happened,” she said. “Growing up, I admired the uniform, and I wanted to do what men did. There’s a saying: ‘What men can do, women can do better,’ and I believe that wholeheartedly. I strive to do everything the men do and sometimes even surpass them.”
Her words reflect the ethos of determination that defines so many women in the Nigerian military today. The journey of these remarkable women—through adversity, societal expectations, and personal sacrifices—serves as a testament to their courage, resolve, and the evolving landscape of gender equality in the Nigerian military.
These women are not just breaking barriers; they are building a legacy for future generations. Their stories will inspire countless young women to dare to dream beyond the limitations of their gender and to serve their country with honor and pride. With each milestone achieved, they continue to prove that women belong in the military, and their contributions are vital to the continued strength and progress of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
As the country looks to the future, one thing is clear: the presence and power of Nigerian women in the military is only set to grow, and with it, the Armed Forces will continue to shine as a beacon of diversity, strength, and excellence on the world stage.
Watch TVC’s documentary on the 2025 armed forces remembrance day for more details below
