Husband, Wife Make History as First Nigeria Couple Brigadier-generals
Husband, Wife Make History as First Nigeria Couple Brigadier-generals
Brigadier General Cecilia U. Akagu and Brigadier General Clifford B. Wanda have made history as the first married couple in the Nigerian Army to both attain the rank of Brigadier General.
Their achievement represents a rare milestone in the annals of the nation’s military, proving that a shared life and high-level professional success can go hand-in-hand.
This dual promotion sets a new precedent for excellence within military families.
A native of Ankpa, Kogi State, Brigadier General Akagu is a distinguished military accountant within the Finance Corps. Known for her integrity and discipline, she currently serves as the Director of Army Accounts Inspectorate. In this critical role, she oversees financial accountability across all Army formations, a position that reflects the deep trust the military leadership places in her professional capabilities.
Her husband, Brigadier General Clifford B. Wanda, hails from Enugu Ngwo in Enugu State and is an equally accomplished senior officer. Throughout his steady career, he has held various essential command and staff positions, earning respect for his leadership and dedication. His rise to the rank of General parallels his wife’s success, highlighting their mutual commitment to the defense and service of Nigeria.
Their journey began in 1990 at the Nigerian Army Training Centre in Jaji, where they met as course mates during an orientation program. Although they were commissioned at different ranks—Cecilia as a Second Lieutenant and Clifford as a Lieutenant—their shared training laid the foundation for a lifelong partnership.
This early connection fostered a bond built on the core military values of mutual respect and disciplined service.
Ultimately, the Akagu-Wanda legacy stands as a landmark achievement that celebrates the intersection of love and duty. By reaching the senior rank of Brigadier General together, they have created an inspiring narrative for future generations of officers.
Their story remains a unique and remarkable chapter in the history of the Nigerian military, honoring two lifetimes of dedicated service.
