Categories: Nigeria News

Profile of Nigeria’s first female Major-General, Aderonke Kale

Early Life and Education Born on July 31, 1939, Aderonke Kale was raised in a family that valued education. Her father, a pharmacist, and her mother, a teacher, ensured she received a solid education. Kale’s academic journey began in Lagos and Zaria for primary education, followed by St. Anne’s School in Ibadan and Abeokuta Grammar School for her secondary education.

Educational Pursuits and Career in Psychiatry She pursued medicine at University College, later known as the University of Ibadan, before specializing in psychiatry at the University of London. The inspiration for her career choice came from Thomas Adeoye Lambo, Africa’s pioneer in psychiatry. Her professional journey took her briefly to Britain before returning to Nigeria in 1971.

Military Career In a groundbreaking move, Kale joined the Nigerian Army in 1972, a significant decision for a woman at such a high professional level during those times. Her progression within the army was remarkable, rising to the positions of colonel and deputy commander of the Nigerian Army Medical Corps by 1990. Her ascent continued as she was later promoted to the rank of brigadier-general, marking her as the first female general in West Africa.

Kale’s career apex came in 1994 when she attained the rank of major-general, becoming the first Nigerian woman to achieve such a distinction. Her contributions were monumental, holding significant roles such as chief psychiatrist to the army and later, director of the entire Nigerian Medical Corps. Her tenure as the Chief Medical Officer until 1996 was a historic moment in the Nigerian Army’s history, as she became the first woman to be entrusted with the healthcare of Nigerian soldiers at all levels, both in preparation for and during times of war.

Personal Life and Legacy Outside her illustrious career, Kale was a proud mother, having a son named Yemi Kale in 1975, who later became the statistician-general of Nigeria. Her philanthropic contributions included providing land for the establishment of the Bodija-Ashi Baptist Church in Ibadan.

Passing and Legacy Aderonke Kale, a Yoruba woman, passed away on November 8, 2023, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements and trailblazing efforts in the Nigerian military, especially as the country’s first female major-general.

Treasure Orokpo

A multi-talented individual with a passion for diverse fields, Treasure Orokpo is a trained journalist, skilled cook, and AI enthusiast. When she's not uncovering the latest stories, you can find her whipping up culinary creations in the kitchen and entertainment.

Recent Posts

Troops storm kidnappers hideout, rescue three victims in Benue

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued three kidnap victims during a coordinated operation along…

21 hours ago

EFCC arraigns gov Alia’s suspended aide, Mkor over alleged sextortion, cyberbullying

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned the suspended Special Adviser to the…

3 days ago

Apa State to wait as Senate dashes Nigerians’ hopes, says no decision on state creation yet

The hope of the Idoma people for the long-awaited creation of Apa State from Benue…

3 days ago

‘We’ve acted decisively to secure Benue — State govt replies critics

The Benue State Government has restated its commitment to tackling insecurity through strategic actions and…

3 days ago

EU supports victims of Yelwata attack, Benue IDPs, others with €1.5m aids

The European Union has committed €1.5 million to support victims of the recent crisis in…

3 days ago

Benue Assembly probes state contracts, suspends all contractor payments

The Benue State House of Assembly has initiated a thorough investigation into all ongoing state…

3 days ago