London, UK – In a historic milestone for British intelligence, Blaise Metreweli has been named the next head of the United Kingdom’s foreign intelligence agency, MI6 — becoming the first woman to lead the secretive service in its more than 100-year history.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the appointment over the weekend, calling it a “historic” moment and a testament to the evolving face of national security leadership.

Metreweli, currently the head of MI6’s technology and innovation division — a role akin to the fictional "Q" character in the James Bond films — is set to officially assume her new post in the fall. While it was disclosed in 2017 that the real-life "Q" was a woman, Metreweli’s identity had remained undisclosed until now.

“I know Blaise will continue to provide the excellent leadership needed to defend our country and keep our people safe,” Starmer said in a public statement, expressing confidence in her ability to guide the agency through complex global threats.

An Oxford University graduate with a career that spans both domestic and foreign intelligence roles, Metreweli brings deep institutional knowledge and technological expertise to a position often seen as central to shaping Britain’s global intelligence posture.

Speaking on her appointment, Metreweli said she was “proud and honored” to take on the role at a time when international security challenges are becoming increasingly sophisticated and interconnected.

Her elevation to the top post comes amid wider discussions in Western intelligence communities about modernization, gender equity, and the strategic importance of cyber capabilities.

The move is being hailed as a symbolic and practical step forward in diversifying leadership within some of the world's most traditionally male-dominated security institutions.


By WafricNews Desk.