Amanda Azubuike, a 57-year-old Black U.S. military officer of Nigerian and Zimbabwean descent, has made history as the first Nigerian woman to be promoted to Brigadier General in the United States Army.
Her military career spans over 30 years, during which she has excelled in aviation, intelligence, public affairs, and senior advisory roles. She has served as Deputy Commanding Officer at the U.S. Army Cadet Command, Chief of Public Affairs for the U.S. Southern Command, and Senior Military Advisor at the Pentagon.
Born in London, Amanda was raised by a Nigerian father of Igbo origin and a Zimbabwean mother. After her parents’ separation, she moved to the United States, becoming a U.S. citizen in April 1989. Her military aspirations began at age 17 when she joined the Air Force Junior ROTC while attending Jacksonville High School.
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. She also holds a Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University.
Her promotion is not just a personal milestone but a powerful example of the growing influence of women, particularly Black women, in global military leadership.
You are an inspiration, Amanda!