The Nigerian Army has made history by appointing Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anaele as the new acting Director of Army Public Relations, effective April 22, 2025. This appointment marks the first time a female officer has held this key position since the Army’s establishment over five decades ago.
Historic Appointment Breaking Gender Barriers
Lieutenant Colonel Anaele’s appointment is a significant milestone for the Nigerian Army, as no female officer has previously led the Public Relations Department. Her leadership role symbolizes progress toward gender inclusivity and diversity within the military.
Professional Background and Expertise
Anaele is a distinguished member of the Direct Regular Course 15 and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). She recently completed a six-month strategic course at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, enhancing her skills in military communication and strategy.
Before this promotion, she served as the Public Relations Officer in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff and was posted to the Department of Civil-Military Relations. These roles have equipped her with extensive experience to manage the Army’s public relations effectively.
Leadership Transition
Lieutenant Colonel Anaele succeeds Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been reassigned to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre. This leadership change reflects the Army’s commitment to strengthening its communication and public engagement strategies.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Appointment Effective Date | April 22, 2025 |
| New Acting Director | Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anaele |
| Predecessor | Major General Onyema Nwachukwu |
| Historic Significance | First female Director of Army Public Relations |
| Professional Affiliations | Direct Regular Course 15, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) |
| Previous Roles | Public Relations Officer, Office of Chief of Army Staff; Department of Civil-Military Relations |
| Recent Training | Six-month strategic course at Nigerian Army Resource Centre |
Why This Appointment Matters
This historic appointment is a clear message that the Nigerian Army values competence and gender equality. Lieutenant Colonel Anaele’s leadership is expected to bring innovative communication strategies and enhance transparency between the Army and the public.
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