Okowa Delighted As Oraka-Onojeje, Delta-Born Becomes First Black Woman US Naval Commander

Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated Navy Commander Hetty Oraka-Onojeje on her promotion to the rank (0-5) in the United States Navy.

Oraka-Onojeje, a Nigerian, from Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta, was elevated to her new rank on July 1, 2021, and with the promotion, she reportedly becomes the first black woman to be promoted to that rank in the US Navy.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Okowa said that the state government and the people were proud of the attainment of Oraka-Onojeje, describing her as energetic, result-driven and highly motivated officer.

He expressed appreciation to the US Naval authorities for finding the illustrious daughter of Delta worthy of promotion to the rank of Commander.

According to the governor, Oraka-Onojeje, has the requisite experience for her new role having graduated from the United States Naval War College in 2020.

He urged the officer to ensure that she continued to be a great ambassador of Delta and Nigeria as well as the black race.

Okowa lauded her for the successes recorded, especially at the United States Naval Recruiting Command where, according to him, she contributed in strengthening the US Navy’s capacity for its constitutional role.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate a fine military officer and pride of Delta, Commander Hetty Ofughara Oraka-Onojeje, on her promotion as a Commander in the US Navy.

“Over the years, Oraka-Onojeje has by dint of hard work and discipline, established herself as a team-player which has endeared her to various ship mates in the US Navy.

“As you assume your new role as Commander in the United States Navy, your family and indeed, your colleagues in the military and admirers have cause to be grateful to Almighty God for having granted you a life of great accomplishments.

“We are proud of you and we know that you will continue to be a great ambassador of our great State and nation, and as your people, we will continue to pray for you for good health and greater attainments,” he stated.