The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated Amanda Azubuike on her groundbreaking promotion to Brigadier General in the United States Army.
At 57 years old, Azubuike becomes the first Nigerian woman to attain this prestigious rank, marking a historic milestone and serving as an inspiration for Nigerians worldwide.
In a statement celebrating her achievement, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the significance of Azubuike’s promotion, stating, “Amanda’s elevation to Brigadier General not only breaks new ground but also underscores the invaluable contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to global advancements.” She urged Nigerians across the world to draw motivation from Azubuike’s accomplishment, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and excellence.
A Journey Rooted in Nigerian Heritage
Born in London, United Kingdom, Azubuike is of Nigerian Igbo descent, with a Zimbabwean mother. Her father, a Nigerian law student, met her mother, a young nursing student, before the family later relocated to the United States following her parents’ divorce. She became a naturalized US citizen in 1989.
Academic and Military Ascent
Azubuike’s military aspirations took root early, leading her to join the Air Force Junior ROTC program while attending high school in Jacksonville, Arkansas. She pursued a degree in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas, graduating in 1993.
Her military career began in 1994 when she joined the US Army as an aviator after completing the Army Aviation Officer Basic Course. A year later, she graduated from flight school as a UH-1 pilot, taking her first assignment as a platoon leader at Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia with the 924th Aviation Support Battalion.
Her dedication led her to the 3rd Military Intelligence Battalion (Aerial Exploitation) in South Korea, where she served as an Operations Officer and RC-12 pilot after completing advanced military training. She later earned a Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University, further expanding her expertise.
A Trailblazing Military Career
Azubuike’s distinguished 30-year career has seen her transition into key leadership and strategic roles, excelling in intelligence, public affairs, and senior advisory positions. She has served as Deputy Commanding Officer at the US Army Cadet Command, Chief of Public Affairs for the US Southern Command, and Senior Military Advisor at the Pentagon, among other notable positions.
Her historic promotion to Brigadier General is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and exceptional service. As the first Nigerian woman to achieve this rank in the US Army, she has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of Nigerian-Americans to aspire to excellence in their fields.
Azubuike’s journey stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of hard work and determination, proving that success knows no borders.