Amanda Azubuike has carved her name into history by becoming the first Nigerian woman to attain the rank of Brigadier General in the United States Army, a milestone in a space long dominated by men.

At 57, her rise through the military ranks continues to motivate women, especially Black women, who are increasingly stepping into leadership roles within armed forces around the world.

Born in London to Nigerian parents of Igbo origin and a Zimbabwean mother, Azubuike’s early years were shaped by constant transitions. Her father had moved from Nigeria to the United Kingdom to study law, where he met her mother, a nursing student. After their separation, Amanda and her sister relocated to the United States with their mother, a move that would define her future. She later became a US citizen in April 1989.

Across more than three decades of service, Azubuike has taken on influential command and advisory positions within the US Army. Her career includes serving as Deputy Commanding Officer at the US Army Cadet Command, leading communications as Chief of Public Affairs for the US Southern Command, and advising top military leadership as a Senior Military Advisor at the Pentagon.

Her promotion to Brigadier General marks the peak of a distinguished career, establishing her as a trailblazer and reinforcing her status as a symbol of resilience, excellence, and representation in military leadership.