Nigerian Army Officer Makes History in United States, Wins Prestigious US Army War College Award

The Nigerian Army has achieved another significant international milestone as Colonel TG Ajato made history at the United States Army War College (USAWC), Carlisle, Pennsylvania, by becoming the first International Fellow to win the institution’s highest academic writing honour.

Colonel Ajato graduated with honours after successfully completing the Academic Year 2026 programme, distinguishing himself among 365 senior military officers, government officials, and strategic leaders from the United States and allied nations.

In a groundbreaking achievement, the Nigerian officer received the prestigious Frank Kelly Writing Award for outstanding research, marking the first time in the history of the renowned military institution that an International Fellow has secured the top academic writing prize.

The award also comes with a United States Army War College Foundation Life Membership and other distinguished privileges, further underscoring the significance of the accomplishment.

Adding to his impressive record, Colonel Ajato earned a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating exceptional academic excellence, critical thinking, and strategic leadership capabilities.

His contributions extended beyond personal academic success. During the programme, he developed sample model answers that were officially approved by the College for future Oral Comprehensive Examinations, setting a benchmark for subsequent classes and reinforcing his reputation as a strategic thinker and scholar.

Military observers have described the achievement as a major boost to Nigeria’s image on the global stage, highlighting the increasing recognition of Nigerian Army officers in leading international military and academic institutions.

The Nigerian Army noted that Colonel Ajato’s success aligns with the vision and command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, which seeks to transform the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.

The achievement also reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to developing strategic leaders capable of addressing evolving security challenges while contributing meaningfully to national, regional, and global peace and security efforts.

Present at the graduation ceremony were Nigeria’s Defence Attaché to New York, Brigadier General EA Koleoso, family members, friends, colleagues, and other well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the historic accomplishment.

Colonel Ajato’s success is being hailed as a source of pride for Nigeria and a testament to the quality, professionalism, and intellectual capacity of Nigerian military personnel on the global stage.