Governor Otti Applauds Abia-Born Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe on His Promotion as Squadron Commander in the US Navy
Governor Alex Otti congratulates Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe from Item, Bende LGA, on his promotion as Commander of U.S. Navy Destroyer Squadron 60 and Task Force 65, celebrating him as the first Nigerian to command a U.S. Navy Warship.
The Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has celebrated an illustrious son of Abia, Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe, who hails from Item in Bende Local Government Area, following his recent promotion to Commander of the U.S. Navy Destroyer Squadron 60 and Commander, Task Force 65, based in Rota, Spain.
In a statement from his office, Governor Otti described Commodore Ndukwe’s promotion as a shining example of what hard work, dedication, and excellence can achieve.
According to the Governor:
“Commodore Ndukwe's deserving promotion is a testament to his hard work wrapped in excellence and faultless professionalism. His trajectory of consistent great accomplishments speaks eloquently about his skills, professionalism, and commitment to carving a niche for himself in the military while serving with uncompromising patriotism.
To be found worthy of this honour is to be outstanding in all aspects — no wonder he enjoys this rare privilege of being the first Nigerian to command a U.S. Navy Warship.”
Governor Otti encouraged young Abians to draw inspiration from Commodore Ndukwe’s achievement, stressing that his story is proof that excellence knows no boundaries.
He concluded by congratulating Commodore Ndukwe on behalf of the government and people of Abia State and praying for his continued success and even greater accomplishments in his military career.
Profile: Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe
Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe is an accomplished naval officer and a proud son of Item, Bende LGA, Abia State. He holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, and a master’s degree in National Security and Strategy from the Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island.
Ndukwe made history as the first Nigerian-born officer to command a U.S. Navy warship when he assumed command of the USS Halsey (DDG 97). His new appointment as Commander, Destroyer Squadron 60 and Task Force 65, puts him in charge of naval operations across Europe and Africa, including counter-piracy and maritime security missions.
His promotion represents not only a personal milestone but also a source of pride for Nigeria and Abia State, serving as a powerful inspiration for the next generation of leaders.
