In a historic appointment that has sent waves of pride across Nigeria and the global African community, Professor Grace Chidozie Ononiwu, CBE, has been named Director-General (Legal Delivery) of the United Kingdom’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) — making her the first Black African to hold one of the most powerful legal offices in Britain.
Professor Ononiwu’s journey is a story of brilliance, resilience, and unshakable determination.
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She qualified as a Solicitor in 1991, joined the CPS, and in 2005, became the first Black person ever appointed Chief Crown Prosecutor. She went on to serve as Chief Crown Prosecutor for the East of England and later the West Midlands region.
Her distinguished career has earned her national recognition, including the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2008 and the Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2019 for services to Law and Order.
A Visiting Professor at the University of Hertfordshire, Professor Ononiwu also made history when the institution named a building in her honour — a rare recognition in British academia. She was listed among the UK’s 100 Most Influential Black Britons and named Woman of the Year (2020).
In June 2025, she reached another milestone when the UK government officially appointed her as Director-General of Legal Delivery at the CPS. This position places her at the very heart of Britain’s justice system.
Her rise from East London to the pinnacle of legal leadership stands as a powerful symbol of Nigerian excellence, grace, and global impact.
“Her story is a masterclass in perseverance and purpose — proof that hard work, integrity, and self-belief can break every barrier,” analysts said.
Professor Grace Ononiwu’s achievement not only marks a personal victory but also shines as a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerians and Africans worldwide
