Nigerian-American Naval Officer Kelechi Ndukwe Appointed Commodore of US Navy Destroyer Squadron 60

Nigerian-American naval officer Kelechi Ndukwe has reached another historic milestone with his appointment as Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60 and Task Force 65, headquartered in Rota, Spain.

Ndukwe, who previously became the first Nigerian-American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, the USS Halsey (DDG-97), now assumes a leadership role overseeing multiple naval operations in Europe.

A University of Notre Dame graduate, Ndukwe began his naval career in 2003 and has since accumulated over two decades of experience, serving in key positions including auxiliaries officer and fire control officer on various U.S. Navy vessels.

His career highlights include commanding the USS Devastator (MCM 6), a minesweeper stationed in Bahrain from 2013 to 2015, and later taking the helm of the USS Halsey in 2021.

Ndukwe has also contributed to strategic military planning at the highest levels, having served in the office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in the United States.

A master’s degree in national security and strategy studies from the U.S. Naval War College underpins his expertise in defense strategy and leadership.

The appointment to Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60 marks the pinnacle of Ndukwe’s distinguished career and cements his status as a trailblazer for Nigerian-Americans in the U.S. military.

Colleagues and observers have hailed Ndukwe’s journey as inspirational, highlighting his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence in naval service.