General Aderonke Kale, renowned for reshaping the face of women and gender mainstreaming in the Nigerian military, was born into a family of professionals; her father was a pharmacist, and her mother a teacher.
“She had her primary education in Lagos and Zaria, and had her post-primary education in St. Anne’s School, Ibadan, and Abeokuta Grammar School, respectively. She opted to study Medicine and successfully gained admission into the University College, which later became the University of Ibadan. After graduating as a medical doctor, she proceeded to the University of London to specialize in Psychiatry.
“General Kale worked briefly in Britain and returned to Nigeria in the year 1971 to join the Nigerian Army in 1972.
“Her competence as a psychiatrist was recognized in 1973 when she qualified as a Consultant Psychiatrist, and in 1982, she became Chief Consultant. In the course of her service from 1980 to 1985, her management acumen came to bear in her career when she became the Commanding Officer of the Military Hospital Ibadan.
“She thus had the distinction of being the first woman to command a military hospital in Nigeria. In 1985 to
1987, she performed the same feat in the Military Hospital, Enugu, and from 1989 to 1990 in the Military Hospital, Benin. With such vital experience, she was elevated to the position of Deputy Commandant, Nigerian Army Medical Corps and School in 1991 till 1994,”
In 1994, she became the first female officer to be promoted to Major General in the Nigerian Army and the West African sub-region.
“She finally attained the peak of her career, when she became the Commandant of the Nigerian Army Medical Corps. First time in the history of the Nigerian Army, that a female officer was entrusted with the crucial responsibility of health care for all Nigerian Army personnel and their families,”
As we reflect on her life, let us remember Major General Aderonke Kale not only for her rank but for the grace with which she wore it. Her career was a symphony of resilience, a melody of triumph over adversity. She exemplified the qualities of a true leader, inspiring those around her with a quiet strength that spoke volumes.
In her 84 years, she witnessed the ebb and flow of time, the changing tides of history, yet she remained steadfast in her dedication to service and progress. Major General Kale's legacy is not confined to the pages of military history; it lives on in the hearts of those she inspired, the lives she touched, and the nation she served.
As we say our final goodbyes, let us celebrate Major General Aderonke Kale's life—a life well-lived, a legacy well-established. May her soul find eternal peace as the sun sets on her earthly journey, leaving behind a radiant glow that will forever illuminate our collective memory.
Rest in peace, Major General Aderonke Kale. Your legacy will endure, a timeless tribute to the heights that can be reached with unwavering determination and an unyielding spirit.
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