Kelechi Ndukwe Becomes First Nigerian to Command US Navy Warship

Captain Kelechi Ndukwe has made history as the first Nigerian to command a United States Navy warship.

This milestone not only highlights his personal accomplishments but also underscores the growing contributions of Nigerians in the US military. Promoted from the rank of Commander to Captain, Ndukwe's illustrious 20-year career in the US Navy began in 2003.

His journey to this historic role started shortly after he earned a master's degree in national security and strategy studies from the US Naval War College.

Over the years, he has commanded multiple vessels, including the USS Devastator (MCM 6), a minesweeper stationed in Bahrain from 2013 to 2015.

In 2021, Ndukwe took command of the USS Halsey (DDG-97), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, making him the first Nigerian-American to lead such a prestigious vessel. His extensive service record includes deployments on various warships across the Mediterranean Sea, Horn of Africa, Arabian Gulf, and Western Pacific Ocean.

"This achievement is not just for Captain Ndukwe but also for the Nigerian-American community," said Segun Victor Agunbiade, a fellow Nigerian US Navy officer, in a congratulatory message shared on X (formerly Twitter). Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), also praised Ndukwe's accomplishment, stating, "A hearty congratulations to Navy Captain Kelechi R Ndukwe.

He is the first Nigerian American to command a US warship. #ProudlyNigerian."