Army Spokesman Maj. Gen. Nwachukwu Bows Out After Groundbreaking Tenure
After nearly four years at the helm of the Nigerian Army’s public relations machinery, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu has formally handed over the reins of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR), marking the end of a tenure widely celebrated for its transformational impact.
Speaking during the official handing and taking over ceremony held at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, Maj Gen Nwachukwu reflected on his journey since assuming office on 16 June 2021.
He described his tenure as one defined by strategic innovation, capacity building, and a deliberate repositioning of Army Public Relations as a central pillar of national security communication.
“In an era defined by the rapid evolution of digital media and the constant demand for timely and credible information, we had to lead the media war from the front,”
Nwachukwu stated. “We retooled the Directorate with cutting-edge multimedia equipment and created systems that enable swift, accurate, and professional engagement with the public.”
PRNigeria reports that one of the landmark achievements under his leadership was the establishment of the Nigerian Army Info TV—a purpose-built platform for documentaries, news features, and digital storytelling that significantly enhanced the Army’s media reach and public engagement.
The launch of a state-of-the-art studio at the Army Headquarters and the development of a Strategic Communications Centre were also cited as major milestones.
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Beyond infrastructure, Maj Gen Nwachukwu prioritized human capital development.
He facilitated local and international training for officers and personnel in crisis communication, digital warfare, media analytics, and strategic messaging to ensure Army PR professionals were equipped with global best practices.
“Our success was not just in the tools we acquired, but in the minds we trained and the narratives we built,” he said, expressing gratitude to the officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of the Directorate for their dedication and teamwork.
He also commended the support received from both former and current Chiefs of Army Staff, including the incumbent, Lt Gen OO Oluyede NAM, whose vision, he noted, helped push the Directorate beyond traditional boundaries.
He acknowledged memeber s of the media for their role in telling the Army’s story through both challenges and triumphs.
“You have stood with us, reported our efforts, and amplified the resilience of our troops on the frontlines. I urge you to continue in that spirit—knowing that national security remains a shared responsibility.”
Nwachukwu formally handed over to Lt Col Onyema Anele, who now makes history as the first female Acting Director of Army Public Relations.
In his parting message to her, he encouraged her to build on the strong foundation already laid.
“The tools are in place, the systems are running. Lead with integrity, passion, and vision,” he charged.
In her remarks, Lt Col Onyema Anele, acknowledged the trailblazing efforts of her predecessor, whom she praised for modernizing the Directorate and building a strong foundation for strategic military communication.
By PRNigeria
