Nigerian-American officer Kelechi Ndukwe makes history with promotion to U.S. Navy Commodore

By Ade Ade

Nigerian-American U.S. Navy officer, Kelechi Ndukwe, has achieved another historic milestone with his promotion to Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60 and Commander of Task Force 65, headquartered in Rota, Spain.

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria celebrated his achievement in a post on X, highlighting his rise through the ranks and his pioneering role in the Navy.

“Meet Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe, a Nigerian-American making history in the @USNavy! From commanding the USS Halsey as the first Nigerian-American to lead a guided-missile destroyer to now serving as Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60 & Task Force 65 in Spain, his journey is pure inspiration and a true example of #AmericanExcellence!” the Mission wrote.

Ndukwe first drew national and international attention in April 2021 when he became the first Nigerian-American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, the USS Halsey (DDG-97). Over a distinguished career spanning decades, he has served on multiple vessels, including the USS Devastator, and has held key leadership positions both at sea and within the Navy’s personnel command.

His latest promotion not only reinforces his reputation as a trailblazer but also highlights the growing influence and contributions of the Nigerian diaspora in global military leadership.