Nigerian Army Officer Makes History, Wins Top US Army War College Award
A Nigerian Army officer, Colonel TG Ajato, has made history at the United States Army War College (USAWC), Carlisle, Pennsylvania, after emerging as the first International Fellow to win the institution’s highest academic writing honour.
Colonel Ajato graduated with honours during the USAWC Academic Year 2026 programme, distinguishing himself among a highly competitive class of 365 senior military officers and strategic leaders from the United States and allied nations.
His exceptional academic performance earned him the prestigious Frank Kelly Writing Award for outstanding research, a landmark achievement that marks the first time an international participant has received the college’s top academic writing prize since the institution’s establishment. The award also confers a United States Army War College Foundation Life Membership and other distinguished benefits.
In addition to the award, Colonel Ajato obtained a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies, further underscoring his academic excellence and strategic leadership capabilities.
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Beyond his personal accomplishments, the Nigerian officer contributed to the academic development of the institution by producing sample model answers for Oral Comprehensive Examinations, which were subsequently approved by the college for use by future participants.
The achievement is being celebrated as another significant milestone for the Nigerian Army and reflects the growing recognition of Nigerian military personnel in leading international professional military education institutions.
According to the Nigerian Army, 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 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 Army noted that the feat also demonstrates its commitment to developing strategic leaders equipped to address emerging security challenges and contribute meaningfully to national, regional and global peace and security efforts.
Among those present at the graduation ceremony were Nigeria’s Defence Attaché to New York, Brigadier General EA Koleoso, as well as family members, friends and well-wishers who witnessed the historic accomplishment.
By PRNigeria
