It was a proud moment for Nigeria and the global naval community, Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe, a distinguished Nigerian-American officer, has been promoted to Commodore, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60, and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 65, headquartered in Rota, Spain.
This milestone marks another chapter in Capt. Ndukwe’s remarkable career of service and leadership in the United States Navy. His new role places him at the helm of overseeing U.S. Navy destroyers operating in Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean, strengthening international maritime security and cooperation.
Capt. Ndukwe made history in April 2021 as the first Nigerian-American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, the USS Halsey (DDG-97), an achievement that drew global recognition and pride. His journey from the son of Nigerian immigrants to one of the highest-ranking officers in the U.S. Navy is an inspiring testament to hard work, resilience, and excellence.
As he assumes his new responsibilities, Capt. Ndukwe continues to embody the values of service, leadership, and cultural representation on the world stage. His promotion is not only a personal triumph but also a symbol of inspiration to millions of Nigerians and Africans in the diaspora who aspire to break barriers in global leadership.
CDR Ndukwe graduated from University of Notre Dame in 2002 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering. He was commissioned through the Naval ROTC program. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College with a Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies.
Afloat, CDR Ndukwe served as Auxiliaries Officer in USS THORN (DD 988) and Fire Control Officer in USS NORMANDY (CG 60). As a Department Head, he served as Weapons Officer and Combat Systems Officer in USS FITZGERALD (DDG 62). Selected for Early Command, he served as Executive Officer of MCM Crew SWERVE embarked on USS DEVASTATOR (MCM 6). He assumed Command of SWERVE and transitioned SWERVE to Permanent Crewing of DEVASTATOR in Bahrain. His most recent assignment was as Executive Officer of USS HALSEY (DDG 97).
Ashore, his assignments include Navy Liaison to U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, Navy Office of Legislative Affairs; Deputy Executive Assistant, Surface Warfare Directorate on Chief of Naval Operations Staff; and as Resources and Acquisition Management Office Branch Chief on Joint Staff, J8.
CDR Ndukwe’s personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various campaign and unit awards.
Congratulatory messages has poured in from well meaning Nigerians, including the office of Nigeria Diaspora Commission’s chairman, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Captain Kelechi Ndukwe is originally a native of Okoko Item, Abia State, Nigeria.
Congratulations to him.