Lt. Col. Onyechi Anele Makes History, Takes over as First Female Army Spokesperson
In a landmark development for gender inclusion in the Nigerian military, Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Appolonia Anele has assumed office as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), becoming the first female officer to hold the position.
The brief but symbolic handing-over ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, where Lt. Col. Anele officially took over from her predecessor, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been redeployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre.
In her inaugural remarks, Lt. Col. Anele expressed deep appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for entrusting her with the critical role of Army spokesperson. She pledged unwavering loyalty and professionalism in her new assignment, promising to build on the legacy of her predecessor while reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s narrative of honour, service, and sacrifice.
“I will continue to justify the confidence reposed in me through dedication, focus, and prompt delivery of our strategic communications,” she said, while also acknowledging the contributions of defence correspondents, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, and other stakeholders in supporting the Army’s public relations efforts.
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Paying tribute to Major General Nwachukwu, she commended his passion and professionalism which, she noted, significantly elevated the image and credibility of the Directorate.
In his valedictory remarks, Major General Nwachukwu reflected on the milestones achieved during his tenure, including enhanced strategic communications, crisis messaging capabilities, digital media operations, and global media engagement. He emphasized that the Directorate now enjoys improved public perception and increased international visibility.
“I am proud of the professional strides we have made, and I am confident that Lt. Col. Anele will take the Directorate to greater heights,” he said, while thanking the COAS and the officers of the Directorate for their support and commitment.
The ceremony featured the official signing of handing-over notes, presentation of the command flag, and the decoration of Lt. Col. Anele with the insignia of the Directorate of Army Public Relations. It was attended by senior military officers, deputy directors, and public relations personnel from across the country.
Lt. Col. Anele, a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), previously served as Public Relations Officer to a former Chief of Army Staff and most recently held a position in the Department of Civil-Military Relations at Defence Headquarters. Her appointment marks a significant step forward in promoting diversity and professionalism within the Nigerian Army’s communication ranks.
By PRNigeria
