At 57 years old, Azubuike is the first Nigerian woman to achieve this remarkable rank in the US Army, shattering glass ceilings and inspiring Nigerians worldwide.
In a statement, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the significance of Azubuike’s achievement, 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.”
The NiDCOM Chairman urged Nigerians globally to draw motivation from Azubuike’s accomplishment, emphasising the importance of perseverance and excellence in all endeavours.
Nigerian Heritage and Early Life
Azubuike’s journey began in London, United Kingdom, where she was born to Nigerian parents of Igbo descent and a Zimbabwean mother. Her father, a Nigerian law student in the UK, met her mother, a young nursing student, and the family later relocated to the United States after Azubuike’s parents divorced. She became a naturalised US citizen in 1989.
Academic and Military Journey
Driven by a desire to join the US Air Force, Azubuike joined the Air Force Junior ROTC program during her high school years in Jacksonville, Arkansas.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas in 1993 and joined the Army in 1994 as an aviator after completing the Army Aviation Officer Basic Course. A year later, she graduated from flight school as a UH-1 pilot, launching her military career at Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia as a platoon leader with the 924th Aviation Support Battalion.
Her journey continued as she joined the 3rd Military Intelligence Battalion (Aerial Exploitation) in South Korea, serving as an Operations Officer and RC-12 pilot after completing advanced military training.
Amanda furthered her education by earning a Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University.
Trailblazing Military Career
Throughout her remarkable 30-year military career, Azubuike has transitioned into strategic and leadership roles, working 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 prestigious assignments.
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Azubuike’s historic promotion to Brigadier General in the US Army is a testament to her unwavering dedication, resilience, and exceptional service.
As the first Nigerian woman to achieve this rank, she has paved the way for others and inspired a new generation of Nigerian-Americans to strive for excellence in their respective fields.