Captain Kelechi Ndukwe has made history by becoming the first Nigerian to lead a United States Navy warship.
He was elevated from the rank of Commander to Captain, marking the pinnacle of a remarkable 20-year career in the United States Navy.
In 2021, Ndukwe assumed command of the USS Halsey (DDG-97), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, thereby becoming the first Nigerian-American to helm such a distinguished vessel.
His ascent to the position commenced in 2003 when he began his career as an auxiliary officer shortly after graduating from US Naval War College with a Master’s degree in National Security and Strategy Studies.
Career
Ndukwe completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame in 2002 and was commissioned through the Naval ROTC program.
He held the position of Auxiliaries Officer aboard the USS THORN (DD 988) and served as Fire Control Officer on the USS NORMANDY (CG 60).
In his capacity as a Department Head, Ndukwe took on the roles of Weapons Officer and Combat Systems Officer on the USS FITZGERALD (DDG 62).
Selected for Early Command, he became the Executive Officer of MCM Crew SWERVE, which was embarked on the USS DEVASTATOR (MCM 6).
Ndukwe later assumed command of SWERVE and facilitated its transition to Permanent Crewing aboard the DEVASTATOR in Bahrain. His latest assignment was as Executive Officer of the USS HALSEY (DDG 97).
On shore, his roles included serving as the Navy Liaison to the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate within the Navy Office of Legislative Affairs, Deputy Executive Assistant in the Surface Warfare Directorate on the Chief of Naval Operations Staff, and Branch Chief for Resources and Acquisition Management Office on the Joint Staff, J8.
Awards
Ndukwe’s personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.
Others are Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
US Naval War College
Established in 1884 in Newport, Rhode Island, is the oldest military institution serving as a premier educational focusing on advanced studies in strategy, tactics, and operations.
The NWC’s mission includes developing leaders, enhancing combat readiness, and supporting maritime security through rigorous professional military education (PME) programs, which grant diplomas or master’s degrees in National Security and Strategic Studies.
The college has educated over 50,000 students, including many senior military leaders and international officers.
