The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has hailed Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe, a proud son of Okoko-Item in Abia State, for making history as the first Nigerian Igbo-American to command a U.S. Navy warship. Ndukwe, who was recently promoted as Commodore in charge of the U.S. Destroyer Squadron 60 and Task Force 65 in Rota, Spain, has become a symbol of Nigerian excellence on the global stage.
His career began in 2003 when he first boarded a Navy ship as one of only two African American officers on board, and the only one commissioned through ROTC. Reflecting on that period, Ndukwe recalled how another African American officer shared his journey of rising through the ranks. “Race had never been something I thought much about. I knew I was the Nigerian kid with a funny name, so I went by Kelly. But he opened my eyes to the importance of representation. If you aren’t there, then who will be? That became my mindset, to be an example for those who look like me and even for those who don’t,” he said.
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Instead of leaving after his required service, Ndukwe committed to a military career that has spanned two decades, driven by what he describes as a blessing and responsibility to lead. Today, he commands the USS Halsey, where he demands excellence from his sailors while also prioritising their well-being and professional growth.
Ndukwe’s rise represents not only personal dedication but also the growing impact of Nigerians in the diaspora. NIDCOM Chairman, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, praised his achievement as proof of the strength, resilience, and global relevance of Nigerians wherever they find themselves.
From Abia State to the highest levels of the U.S. Navy, Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe’s story is one of breaking barriers, inspiring the next generation, and proving that Nigerians can excel on any platform in the world.
