ABUJA: The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has congratulated Captain Kelechi Ndukwe, a Nigerian American officer, on his elevation to the rank of Commodore in the United States Navy, describing his promotion as a source of pride to Nigeria, the global naval community, and millions of Nigerians in the diaspora.
Commodore Ndukwe, who will now serve as Commodore, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60, and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 65, will oversee U.S. Navy destroyer operations across Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean, operating from Rota, Spain.
In a congratulatory statement issued in Abuja by NIDCOM spokesperson Gabriel Odu, the commission praised Ndukwe’s resilience, leadership, and professionalism, noting that his latest achievement represents the best of Nigerian excellence abroad.
This outstanding accomplishment makes Nigeria, the international naval community, and Nigerians living abroad proud, NIDCOM stated.
The Commission’s Chairperson, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, also hailed Ndukwe’s rise as a reflection of the boundless potential of Nigerians across the world, adding that his career journey demonstrates how talent, discipline, and hard work can take Nigerians to the highest levels of international service.
Born to Nigerian parents who migrated to the United States in search of better opportunities, Kelechi Ndukwe grew up in Washington, D.C., where he developed an early passion for engineering, service, and leadership.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Notre Dame, one of America’s most prestigious universities, and later earned a master’s degree in National Security and Strategy Studies from the U.S. Naval War College in Rhode Island.
Ndukwe’s educational background laid the foundation for his remarkable rise through the ranks, combining technical expertise with strategic military insight.
Joining the U.S. Navy over two decades ago, Ndukwe has served in various capacities aboard multiple U.S. Navy ships. His experience spans global maritime operations, crisis response, and international cooperation missions across the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and African waters.
In April 2021, he made history as the first Nigerian American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, the USS Halsey (DDG-97), a milestone widely celebrated by Nigerians and Africans in the diaspora.
As a commanding officer, Ndukwe earned a reputation for excellence, discipline, and strong mentorship among his crew. His leadership was instrumental in advancing joint military partnerships between the U.S. Navy and allied forces in Europe and Africa.
Now as Commodore, he commands the Destroyer Squadron 60 — a critical operational unit responsible for U.S. Navy destroyer missions, fleet coordination, and maritime security in one of the world’s most strategic regions.
Throughout his service, Commodore Ndukwe has received multiple commendations for outstanding leadership, including Navy Commendation Medals, Meritorious Service Medals, and recognition from international partners for his contributions to maritime peacekeeping operations.
Commodore Ndukwe is married with children. His family, whom he describes as his anchor and motivation, has supported him throughout his demanding naval career.
Despite his global assignments, he remains deeply connected to his Nigerian roots, frequently engaging with Nigerian community groups and youth mentorship initiatives abroad.
He often credits his parents for instilling in him the values of hard work, faith, and humility principles that continue to guide his personal and professional life.
NIDCOM emphasized that Commodore Ndukwe’s success represents the strength and resilience of Nigerians in the diaspora, whose achievements continue to bring honor to the nation.
The promotion of Commodore Ndukwe symbolizes the positive influence of our diaspora community and the limitless potential of Nigerians around the world, the Commission added.
As Commodore Ndukwe takes up his new command in Spain, his journey stands as a testament to the global impact of Nigerian professionals, breaking barriers, shaping history, and inspiring future generations to aim higher.
