The United States Mission to Nigeria has spotlighted the remarkable career of Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe, a distinguished Nigerian-American officer whose rise in the U.S. Navy continues to make history and inspire admiration across both nations.
Commodore Ndukwe first drew international attention when he became the first Nigerian-American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, taking the helm of the USS Halsey. His groundbreaking achievement was celebrated as a milestone for representation and diversity within the United States Armed Forces.
In his latest appointment, Ndukwe now serves as Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60 and Task Force 65, headquartered in Rota, Spain. In this capacity, he oversees naval operations across Europe and Africa, further cementing his reputation as a respected leader in maritime security and international defense cooperation.
The U.S. Mission described Ndukwe’s journey as “pure inspiration” and a clear demonstration of American excellence, noting that his achievements reflect the opportunities available to individuals of diverse backgrounds who serve with dedication and distinction.
Born to Nigerian parents and raised in the United States, Ndukwe’s career stands as a source of pride to both countries, reinforcing the strong people-to-people ties that define U.S.–Nigeria relations.
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