In a renewed efforts to promote the Nation’s peace and sovereignty, the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Anele has urged the information managers to uphold truth and fairness in their reportage.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele who made the appeal in her Maiden speech during the handing and taking over ceremony held at the Nigerian Army headquarters in Abuja said no nation strives with out a sustained synergy between the Nigerian Military and the media.
The Army Spokesperson also assured leveraging on the established cordial relationship with the media by her predecessor to sustaining the tempo in enhancing the image and the narrative of the Nigerian Army professionally.
In her words “It is a moment I do not take lightly, not only because of the enormous responsibilities that come with this office, but also because of the expectations and most importantly, the historic significance of my appointment.
”Firstly, to be entrusted with this strategic role as the Nigerian Army spokesperson being the first female officer in the history of the Nigerian Army and indeed Armed Forces of Nigeria. Therefore, I owe this opportunity to the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM. Sir, I thank you most sincerely for finding me worthy of this appointment.
”I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused and results-driven.
I would like to pay glowing tribute to my immediate predecessors, especially my boss, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, whose passion, resilience, and professionalism laid a formidable foundation and transformed the Directorate of Army Public Relations to this enviable state.
”To the dedicated officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of this great Directorate, I thank you for your enduring commitment. Your collective efforts have kept the Directorate effective and respected. Therefore, I count on your continued support and cooperation as we work together to further enhance the Directorate’s capacity and relevance.
”To our friends the media, particularly our defence correspondents, you are our partners in progress. I commend your professionalism in reporting military activities and encourage you to sustain the tempo. However, let us continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in our engagements for the good of our great country, Nigeria.
”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian Army. I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty. As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the Directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.
”We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility and service to the nation.
The outgoing Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu however applauded the immerse contributions of the media in projecting the Nigerian Military especially in the phase of adversaries.
He also appealled that such gesture should be extended to his successor for an enhanced National Security, peace and Unity, noting that under his watch more have been achieved in reshaping the Directorate for effective delivery.
”When I assumed this noble responsibility on 16 June 2021, I was fully aware of the enormous expectations that came with it, especially in an era defined by the rapid evolution of the digital media landscape, the proliferation of information channels and the relentless demand for timely, accurate and strategic communication.
” I knew that to remain relevant and effective, I had to modernize, adapt, and lead the media war from the front.
Today, I dare to say with confidence that I did not merely react to these challenges, I boldly confronted them head-on with innovation, vision, purpose.
”One of the major milestones was the retooling of the Directorate with cutting-edge multimedia equipment, positioning us to respond swiftly and professionally to both operational and non-operational media engagements. I ensured the acquisition of modern cameras, editing suites, audio-visual systems and digital communication tools necessary to thrive in the fast-paced global media space. ” Onyema disclosed”
General Onyema expressed gratitude to those who supported him when he was in helms of affairs , “To those who supported me in the Directorate uniformed and civilians alike, I am deeply grateful for your dedication and loyalty. Your commitment was the wind beneath my wings. Together, we laid the bricks for a solid institutional legacy.
”I must also extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the former Chiefs of Army Staff, and the incumbent Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen OO Oluyede NAM, with whom I was privileged to serve, for their trust, guidance, and unflinching support. Your vision for a professionally responsive Nigerian Army inspired us to reach beyond the ordinary and to leave no stone unturned in projecting the values, operations, and triumphs of our beloved Army.
”As you continue to carry out your vital societal role, I entreat you to always remember that the defence of our beloved country, Nigeria and the protection of her people must be our watch words.
”To my successor, I have this to say; the foundations have been laid by our founding fathers, upon which we have continued to build; the tools are in place. Take the Directorate to even greater heights. I am confident that you will carry the torch with purpose, passion, and integrity.
”As I move on to the next phase of my career in service to our dear nation, I carry with me fond memories, valuable lessons, and a deep sense of fulfillment. I leave confident that the Nigerian Army Public Relations is now better positioned to meet the demands of the future.
PROFILE OF THE NEWLY APPOINTED ACTING DIRECTOR OF ARMY PUBLIC RELATIONS, LIEUTENANT COLONEL (MRS) OA ANELE FSS anipr
Lieutenant Colonel (Mrs) Onyechi Appolonia Anele the newly appointed Acting Director of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (Ag DAPR), is a seasoned, versatile and highly accomplished public relations, crisis and strategic communication expert with a steadfast commitment to excellence, discipline and service.
She is widely recognised for her exceptional leadership acumen, deep professional insight and strategic foresight in advancing military public communication. A firm believer in hard work and dedication, she brings to her new role a wealth of experience cultivated through years of impactful service in diverse command, instructional and public engagement capacities within the Nigerian Army and international peacekeeping missions. Destined for greater heights in career and life, she was born to the family of late Warrant Officer Cyraicus Anele and Mrs Appolonia Anele (now late) and hails from Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
She had her primary school education at Army Children’s School, Rukuba Barracks and her secondary education at Command Day Secondary School, both in Jos, Plateau State. Appolonia attended the University of Jos where she obtained a Diploma and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communication respectively. Upon her graduation, she attended the mandatory National Youth Service Corp and thereafter was commissioned Lieutenant into the Nigerian Army Directorate of Army Public Relations as a member of Direct Regular Course 15 on 8 December 2007.
She has attended several military and civil courses in the course of her impeccable military career. Some of the courses include the Young Officers Course (YOC), in 2010, the Media Operations Officers Course in 2013, the Advanced Public Relations Officers Course in 2016 and the Strategic Communications Course in 2025, all at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI).
She also attended the Crisis Information Management Course, Conflict Prevention Course and Integrated Peace Support Operations Course all at the prestigious Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Accra, Ghana between 2011 and 2013. She further attended the Joint Information Operations Course and the Gender in Peace Support Operations Course at the Royal Airforce Halton, United Kingdom in July 2015 and at the École de Maintien de la Paix, Bamako Mali in June 2015, respectively.
In 2017, she attended the Gender Training of Trainers Course at SwedInt, Sweden. In her quest to acquire more knowledge, she obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Gender Peace and Security, from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, Ghana in 2013. She also holds a Master of Arts Degree in Leadership and Strategic Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna in 2024.
A well-experienced senior officer, the new Acting Director has held several command, staff and instructional appointments which include Military Public Information Officer Nigerian Battalion (NIBATT) 5 at the United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), Sudan in 2008, Staff Officer Grade 3 Information/Publication at the Headquarters 2 Division Nigerian Army Ibadan from 2008 to 2012, Instructor/Administrative Officer and Chief Instructor at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Lagos from 2013 to 2016 and the Gender Officer at the Department of Army Training and Operations, Army Headquarters Abuja between July 2016 and January 2018.
She was the Public Relations Officer to then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation.
She was the Public Relations Officer to the then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights, at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation. Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele was promoted to the ranks of Captain, Major, and Lieutenant Colonel in the Nigerian Army in 2012, 2016, and 2021 respectively.
A sound intellectual with instructional abilities, she has delivered several lectures during seminars, conferences, and workshops. Some of these include: “Enhancing a Professionally Responsive Nigerian Army in the Discharge of its Constitutional Roles: The Gender Perspective” at the Nigerian Army Women Corps Convention Abuja in 2022; “Gender Mainstreaming in Peace Support Operations” to participants of Naval Warfare Course 7/23 at the Naval War College of Nigeria, Calabar in 2023; and “Gender Inclusion and Career Planning in the Nigerian Army: Female Officers in Perspective” during the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary Career Week for Officers in 2025, among others. Lieutenant Colonel OA Anele is an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and a holder of the Forces Service Star Award of the Nigerian Army. Her hobbies include reading, taking long walks, and listening to music. She is happily married.
BREAKING: Anele Takes Charge as the First Female Army Spokesperson
In a renewed efforts to promote the Nation’s peace and sovereignty, the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Anele has urged the information managers to uphold truth and fairness in their reportage.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele who made the appeal in her Maiden speech during the handing and taking over ceremony held at the Nigerian Army headquarters in Abuja said no nation strives with out a sustained synergy between the Nigerian Military and the media.
The Army Spokesperson also assured leveraging on the established cordial relationship with the media by her predecessor to sustaining the tempo in enhancing the image and the narrative of the Nigerian Army professionally.
In her words “It is a moment I do not take lightly, not only because of the enormous responsibilities that come with this office, but also because of the expectations and most importantly, the historic significance of my appointment.
”Firstly, to be entrusted with this strategic role as the Nigerian Army spokesperson being the first female officer in the history of the Nigerian Army and indeed Armed Forces of Nigeria. Therefore, I owe this opportunity to the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM. Sir, I thank you most sincerely for finding me worthy of this appointment.
”I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused and results-driven.
I would like to pay glowing tribute to my immediate predecessors, especially my boss, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, whose passion, resilience, and professionalism laid a formidable foundation and transformed the Directorate of Army Public Relations to this enviable state.
”To the dedicated officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of this great Directorate, I thank you for your enduring commitment. Your collective efforts have kept the Directorate effective and respected. Therefore, I count on your continued support and cooperation as we work together to further enhance the Directorate’s capacity and relevance.
”To our friends the media, particularly our defence correspondents, you are our partners in progress. I commend your professionalism in reporting military activities and encourage you to sustain the tempo. However, let us continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in our engagements for the good of our great country, Nigeria.
”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian Army. I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty. As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the Directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.
”We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility and service to the nation.
The outgoing Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu however applauded the immerse contributions of the media in projecting the Nigerian Military especially in the phase of adversaries.
He also appealled that such gesture should be extended to his successor for an enhanced National Security, peace and Unity, noting that under his watch more have been achieved in reshaping the Directorate for effective delivery.
”When I assumed this noble responsibility on 16 June 2021, I was fully aware of the enormous expectations that came with it, especially in an era defined by the rapid evolution of the digital media landscape, the proliferation of information channels and the relentless demand for timely, accurate and strategic communication.
” I knew that to remain relevant and effective, I had to modernize, adapt, and lead the media war from the front.
Today, I dare to say with confidence that I did not merely react to these challenges, I boldly confronted them head-on with innovation, vision, purpose.
”One of the major milestones was the retooling of the Directorate with cutting-edge multimedia equipment, positioning us to respond swiftly and professionally to both operational and non-operational media engagements. I ensured the acquisition of modern cameras, editing suites, audio-visual systems and digital communication tools necessary to thrive in the fast-paced global media space. ” Onyema disclosed”
General Onyema expressed gratitude to those who supported him when he was in helms of affairs , “To those who supported me in the Directorate uniformed and civilians alike, I am deeply grateful for your dedication and loyalty. Your commitment was the wind beneath my wings. Together, we laid the bricks for a solid institutional legacy.
”I must also extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the former Chiefs of Army Staff, and the incumbent Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen OO Oluyede NAM, with whom I was privileged to serve, for their trust, guidance, and unflinching support. Your vision for a professionally responsive Nigerian Army inspired us to reach beyond the ordinary and to leave no stone unturned in projecting the values, operations, and triumphs of our beloved Army.
”As you continue to carry out your vital societal role, I entreat you to always remember that the defence of our beloved country, Nigeria and the protection of her people must be our watch words.
”To my successor, I have this to say; the foundations have been laid by our founding fathers, upon which we have continued to build; the tools are in place. Take the Directorate to even greater heights. I am confident that you will carry the torch with purpose, passion, and integrity.
”As I move on to the next phase of my career in service to our dear nation, I carry with me fond memories, valuable lessons, and a deep sense of fulfillment. I leave confident that the Nigerian Army Public Relations is now better positioned to meet the demands of the future.
PROFILE OF THE NEWLY APPOINTED ACTING DIRECTOR OF ARMY PUBLIC RELATIONS, LIEUTENANT COLONEL (MRS) OA ANELE FSS anipr
Lieutenant Colonel (Mrs) Onyechi Appolonia Anele the newly appointed Acting Director of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (Ag DAPR), is a seasoned, versatile and highly accomplished public relations, crisis and strategic communication expert with a steadfast commitment to excellence, discipline and service.
She is widely recognised for her exceptional leadership acumen, deep professional insight and strategic foresight in advancing military public communication. A firm believer in hard work and dedication, she brings to her new role a wealth of experience cultivated through years of impactful service in diverse command, instructional and public engagement capacities within the Nigerian Army and international peacekeeping missions. Destined for greater heights in career and life, she was born to the family of late Warrant Officer Cyraicus Anele and Mrs Appolonia Anele (now late) and hails from Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
She had her primary school education at Army Children’s School, Rukuba Barracks and her secondary education at Command Day Secondary School, both in Jos, Plateau State. Appolonia attended the University of Jos where she obtained a Diploma and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communication respectively. Upon her graduation, she attended the mandatory National Youth Service Corp and thereafter was commissioned Lieutenant into the Nigerian Army Directorate of Army Public Relations as a member of Direct Regular Course 15 on 8 December 2007.
She has attended several military and civil courses in the course of her impeccable military career. Some of the courses include the Young Officers Course (YOC), in 2010, the Media Operations Officers Course in 2013, the Advanced Public Relations Officers Course in 2016 and the Strategic Communications Course in 2025, all at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI).
She also attended the Crisis Information Management Course, Conflict Prevention Course and Integrated Peace Support Operations Course all at the prestigious Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Accra, Ghana between 2011 and 2013. She further attended the Joint Information Operations Course and the Gender in Peace Support Operations Course at the Royal Airforce Halton, United Kingdom in July 2015 and at the École de Maintien de la Paix, Bamako Mali in June 2015, respectively.
In 2017, she attended the Gender Training of Trainers Course at SwedInt, Sweden. In her quest to acquire more knowledge, she obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Gender Peace and Security, from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, Ghana in 2013. She also holds a Master of Arts Degree in Leadership and Strategic Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna in 2024.
A well-experienced senior officer, the new Acting Director has held several command, staff and instructional appointments which include Military Public Information Officer Nigerian Battalion (NIBATT) 5 at the United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), Sudan in 2008, Staff Officer Grade 3 Information/Publication at the Headquarters 2 Division Nigerian Army Ibadan from 2008 to 2012, Instructor/Administrative Officer and Chief Instructor at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Lagos from 2013 to 2016 and the Gender Officer at the Department of Army Training and Operations, Army Headquarters Abuja between July 2016 and January 2018.
She was the Public Relations Officer to then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation.
She was the Public Relations Officer to the then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights, at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation. Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele was promoted to the ranks of Captain, Major, and Lieutenant Colonel in the Nigerian Army in 2012, 2016, and 2021 respectively.
A sound intellectual with instructional abilities, she has delivered several lectures during seminars, conferences, and workshops. Some of these include: “Enhancing a Professionally Responsive Nigerian Army in the Discharge of its Constitutional Roles: The Gender Perspective” at the Nigerian Army Women Corps Convention Abuja in 2022; “Gender Mainstreaming in Peace Support Operations” to participants of Naval Warfare Course 7/23 at the Naval War College of Nigeria, Calabar in 2023; and “Gender Inclusion and Career Planning in the Nigerian Army: Female Officers in Perspective” during the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary Career Week for Officers in 2025, among others. Lieutenant Colonel OA Anele is an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and a holder of the Forces Service Star Award of the Nigerian Army. Her hobbies include reading, taking long walks, and listening to music. She is happily married.
LEAVE A REPLY
In a renewed efforts to promote the Nation’s peace and sovereignty, the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Anele has urged the information managers to uphold truth and fairness in their reportage.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele who made the appeal in her Maiden speech during the handing and taking over ceremony held at the Nigerian Army headquarters in Abuja said no nation strives with out a sustained synergy between the Nigerian Military and the media.
The Army Spokesperson also assured leveraging on the established cordial relationship with the media by her predecessor to sustaining the tempo in enhancing the image and the narrative of the Nigerian Army professionally.
In her words “It is a moment I do not take lightly, not only because of the enormous responsibilities that come with this office, but also because of the expectations and most importantly, the historic significance of my appointment.
”Firstly, to be entrusted with this strategic role as the Nigerian Army spokesperson being the first female officer in the history of the Nigerian Army and indeed Armed Forces of Nigeria. Therefore, I owe this opportunity to the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM. Sir, I thank you most sincerely for finding me worthy of this appointment.
”I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused and results-driven.
I would like to pay glowing tribute to my immediate predecessors, especially my boss, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, whose passion, resilience, and professionalism laid a formidable foundation and transformed the Directorate of Army Public Relations to this enviable state.
”To the dedicated officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of this great Directorate, I thank you for your enduring commitment. Your collective efforts have kept the Directorate effective and respected. Therefore, I count on your continued support and cooperation as we work together to further enhance the Directorate’s capacity and relevance.
”To our friends the media, particularly our defence correspondents, you are our partners in progress. I commend your professionalism in reporting military activities and encourage you to sustain the tempo. However, let us continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in our engagements for the good of our great country, Nigeria.
”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian Army. I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty. As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the Directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.
”We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility and service to the nation.
The outgoing Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu however applauded the immerse contributions of the media in projecting the Nigerian Military especially in the phase of adversaries.
He also appealled that such gesture should be extended to his successor for an enhanced National Security, peace and Unity, noting that under his watch more have been achieved in reshaping the Directorate for effective delivery.
”When I assumed this noble responsibility on 16 June 2021, I was fully aware of the enormous expectations that came with it, especially in an era defined by the rapid evolution of the digital media landscape, the proliferation of information channels and the relentless demand for timely, accurate and strategic communication.
” I knew that to remain relevant and effective, I had to modernize, adapt, and lead the media war from the front.
Today, I dare to say with confidence that I did not merely react to these challenges, I boldly confronted them head-on with innovation, vision, purpose.
”One of the major milestones was the retooling of the Directorate with cutting-edge multimedia equipment, positioning us to respond swiftly and professionally to both operational and non-operational media engagements. I ensured the acquisition of modern cameras, editing suites, audio-visual systems and digital communication tools necessary to thrive in the fast-paced global media space. ” Onyema disclosed”
General Onyema expressed gratitude to those who supported him when he was in helms of affairs , “To those who supported me in the Directorate uniformed and civilians alike, I am deeply grateful for your dedication and loyalty. Your commitment was the wind beneath my wings. Together, we laid the bricks for a solid institutional legacy.
”I must also extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the former Chiefs of Army Staff, and the incumbent Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen OO Oluyede NAM, with whom I was privileged to serve, for their trust, guidance, and unflinching support. Your vision for a professionally responsive Nigerian Army inspired us to reach beyond the ordinary and to leave no stone unturned in projecting the values, operations, and triumphs of our beloved Army.
”As you continue to carry out your vital societal role, I entreat you to always remember that the defence of our beloved country, Nigeria and the protection of her people must be our watch words.
”To my successor, I have this to say; the foundations have been laid by our founding fathers, upon which we have continued to build; the tools are in place. Take the Directorate to even greater heights. I am confident that you will carry the torch with purpose, passion, and integrity.
”As I move on to the next phase of my career in service to our dear nation, I carry with me fond memories, valuable lessons, and a deep sense of fulfillment. I leave confident that the Nigerian Army Public Relations is now better positioned to meet the demands of the future.
PROFILE OF THE NEWLY APPOINTED ACTING DIRECTOR OF ARMY PUBLIC RELATIONS, LIEUTENANT COLONEL (MRS) OA ANELE FSS anipr
Lieutenant Colonel (Mrs) Onyechi Appolonia Anele the newly appointed Acting Director of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (Ag DAPR), is a seasoned, versatile and highly accomplished public relations, crisis and strategic communication expert with a steadfast commitment to excellence, discipline and service.
She is widely recognised for her exceptional leadership acumen, deep professional insight and strategic foresight in advancing military public communication. A firm believer in hard work and dedication, she brings to her new role a wealth of experience cultivated through years of impactful service in diverse command, instructional and public engagement capacities within the Nigerian Army and international peacekeeping missions. Destined for greater heights in career and life, she was born to the family of late Warrant Officer Cyraicus Anele and Mrs Appolonia Anele (now late) and hails from Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
She had her primary school education at Army Children’s School, Rukuba Barracks and her secondary education at Command Day Secondary School, both in Jos, Plateau State. Appolonia attended the University of Jos where she obtained a Diploma and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communication respectively. Upon her graduation, she attended the mandatory National Youth Service Corp and thereafter was commissioned Lieutenant into the Nigerian Army Directorate of Army Public Relations as a member of Direct Regular Course 15 on 8 December 2007.
She has attended several military and civil courses in the course of her impeccable military career. Some of the courses include the Young Officers Course (YOC), in 2010, the Media Operations Officers Course in 2013, the Advanced Public Relations Officers Course in 2016 and the Strategic Communications Course in 2025, all at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI).
She also attended the Crisis Information Management Course, Conflict Prevention Course and Integrated Peace Support Operations Course all at the prestigious Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Accra, Ghana between 2011 and 2013. She further attended the Joint Information Operations Course and the Gender in Peace Support Operations Course at the Royal Airforce Halton, United Kingdom in July 2015 and at the École de Maintien de la Paix, Bamako Mali in June 2015, respectively.
In 2017, she attended the Gender Training of Trainers Course at SwedInt, Sweden. In her quest to acquire more knowledge, she obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Gender Peace and Security, from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, Ghana in 2013. She also holds a Master of Arts Degree in Leadership and Strategic Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna in 2024.
A well-experienced senior officer, the new Acting Director has held several command, staff and instructional appointments which include Military Public Information Officer Nigerian Battalion (NIBATT) 5 at the United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), Sudan in 2008, Staff Officer Grade 3 Information/Publication at the Headquarters 2 Division Nigerian Army Ibadan from 2008 to 2012, Instructor/Administrative Officer and Chief Instructor at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Lagos from 2013 to 2016 and the Gender Officer at the Department of Army Training and Operations, Army Headquarters Abuja between July 2016 and January 2018.
She was the Public Relations Officer to then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation.
She was the Public Relations Officer to the then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights, at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation. Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele was promoted to the ranks of Captain, Major, and Lieutenant Colonel in the Nigerian Army in 2012, 2016, and 2021 respectively.
A sound intellectual with instructional abilities, she has delivered several lectures during seminars, conferences, and workshops. Some of these include: “Enhancing a Professionally Responsive Nigerian Army in the Discharge of its Constitutional Roles: The Gender Perspective” at the Nigerian Army Women Corps Convention Abuja in 2022; “Gender Mainstreaming in Peace Support Operations” to participants of Naval Warfare Course 7/23 at the Naval War College of Nigeria, Calabar in 2023; and “Gender Inclusion and Career Planning in the Nigerian Army: Female Officers in Perspective” during the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary Career Week for Officers in 2025, among others. Lieutenant Colonel OA Anele is an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and a holder of the Forces Service Star Award of the Nigerian Army. Her hobbies include reading, taking long walks, and listening to music. She is happily married.
LEAVE A REPLY
In a renewed efforts to promote the Nation’s peace and sovereignty, the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Anele has urged the information managers to uphold truth and fairness in their reportage.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele who made the appeal in her Maiden speech during the handing and taking over ceremony held at the Nigerian Army headquarters in Abuja said no nation strives with out a sustained synergy between the Nigerian Military and the media.
The Army Spokesperson also assured leveraging on the established cordial relationship with the media by her predecessor to sustaining the tempo in enhancing the image and the narrative of the Nigerian Army professionally.
In her words “It is a moment I do not take lightly, not only because of the enormous responsibilities that come with this office, but also because of the expectations and most importantly, the historic significance of my appointment.
”Firstly, to be entrusted with this strategic role as the Nigerian Army spokesperson being the first female officer in the history of the Nigerian Army and indeed Armed Forces of Nigeria. Therefore, I owe this opportunity to the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM. Sir, I thank you most sincerely for finding me worthy of this appointment.
”I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused and results-driven.
I would like to pay glowing tribute to my immediate predecessors, especially my boss, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, whose passion, resilience, and professionalism laid a formidable foundation and transformed the Directorate of Army Public Relations to this enviable state.
”To the dedicated officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of this great Directorate, I thank you for your enduring commitment. Your collective efforts have kept the Directorate effective and respected. Therefore, I count on your continued support and cooperation as we work together to further enhance the Directorate’s capacity and relevance.
”To our friends the media, particularly our defence correspondents, you are our partners in progress. I commend your professionalism in reporting military activities and encourage you to sustain the tempo. However, let us continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in our engagements for the good of our great country, Nigeria.
”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian Army. I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty. As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the Directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.
”We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility and service to the nation.
The outgoing Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu however applauded the immerse contributions of the media in projecting the Nigerian Military especially in the phase of adversaries.
He also appealled that such gesture should be extended to his successor for an enhanced National Security, peace and Unity, noting that under his watch more have been achieved in reshaping the Directorate for effective delivery.
”When I assumed this noble responsibility on 16 June 2021, I was fully aware of the enormous expectations that came with it, especially in an era defined by the rapid evolution of the digital media landscape, the proliferation of information channels and the relentless demand for timely, accurate and strategic communication.
” I knew that to remain relevant and effective, I had to modernize, adapt, and lead the media war from the front.
Today, I dare to say with confidence that I did not merely react to these challenges, I boldly confronted them head-on with innovation, vision, purpose.
”One of the major milestones was the retooling of the Directorate with cutting-edge multimedia equipment, positioning us to respond swiftly and professionally to both operational and non-operational media engagements. I ensured the acquisition of modern cameras, editing suites, audio-visual systems and digital communication tools necessary to thrive in the fast-paced global media space. ” Onyema disclosed”
General Onyema expressed gratitude to those who supported him when he was in helms of affairs , “To those who supported me in the Directorate uniformed and civilians alike, I am deeply grateful for your dedication and loyalty. Your commitment was the wind beneath my wings. Together, we laid the bricks for a solid institutional legacy.
”I must also extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the former Chiefs of Army Staff, and the incumbent Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen OO Oluyede NAM, with whom I was privileged to serve, for their trust, guidance, and unflinching support. Your vision for a professionally responsive Nigerian Army inspired us to reach beyond the ordinary and to leave no stone unturned in projecting the values, operations, and triumphs of our beloved Army.
”As you continue to carry out your vital societal role, I entreat you to always remember that the defence of our beloved country, Nigeria and the protection of her people must be our watch words.
”To my successor, I have this to say; the foundations have been laid by our founding fathers, upon which we have continued to build; the tools are in place. Take the Directorate to even greater heights. I am confident that you will carry the torch with purpose, passion, and integrity.
”As I move on to the next phase of my career in service to our dear nation, I carry with me fond memories, valuable lessons, and a deep sense of fulfillment. I leave confident that the Nigerian Army Public Relations is now better positioned to meet the demands of the future.
PROFILE OF THE NEWLY APPOINTED ACTING DIRECTOR OF ARMY PUBLIC RELATIONS, LIEUTENANT COLONEL (MRS) OA ANELE FSS anipr
Lieutenant Colonel (Mrs) Onyechi Appolonia Anele the newly appointed Acting Director of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (Ag DAPR), is a seasoned, versatile and highly accomplished public relations, crisis and strategic communication expert with a steadfast commitment to excellence, discipline and service.
She is widely recognised for her exceptional leadership acumen, deep professional insight and strategic foresight in advancing military public communication. A firm believer in hard work and dedication, she brings to her new role a wealth of experience cultivated through years of impactful service in diverse command, instructional and public engagement capacities within the Nigerian Army and international peacekeeping missions. Destined for greater heights in career and life, she was born to the family of late Warrant Officer Cyraicus Anele and Mrs Appolonia Anele (now late) and hails from Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
She had her primary school education at Army Children’s School, Rukuba Barracks and her secondary education at Command Day Secondary School, both in Jos, Plateau State. Appolonia attended the University of Jos where she obtained a Diploma and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communication respectively. Upon her graduation, she attended the mandatory National Youth Service Corp and thereafter was commissioned Lieutenant into the Nigerian Army Directorate of Army Public Relations as a member of Direct Regular Course 15 on 8 December 2007.
She has attended several military and civil courses in the course of her impeccable military career. Some of the courses include the Young Officers Course (YOC), in 2010, the Media Operations Officers Course in 2013, the Advanced Public Relations Officers Course in 2016 and the Strategic Communications Course in 2025, all at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI).
She also attended the Crisis Information Management Course, Conflict Prevention Course and Integrated Peace Support Operations Course all at the prestigious Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Accra, Ghana between 2011 and 2013. She further attended the Joint Information Operations Course and the Gender in Peace Support Operations Course at the Royal Airforce Halton, United Kingdom in July 2015 and at the École de Maintien de la Paix, Bamako Mali in June 2015, respectively.
In 2017, she attended the Gender Training of Trainers Course at SwedInt, Sweden. In her quest to acquire more knowledge, she obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Gender Peace and Security, from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, Ghana in 2013. She also holds a Master of Arts Degree in Leadership and Strategic Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna in 2024.
A well-experienced senior officer, the new Acting Director has held several command, staff and instructional appointments which include Military Public Information Officer Nigerian Battalion (NIBATT) 5 at the United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), Sudan in 2008, Staff Officer Grade 3 Information/Publication at the Headquarters 2 Division Nigerian Army Ibadan from 2008 to 2012, Instructor/Administrative Officer and Chief Instructor at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Lagos from 2013 to 2016 and the Gender Officer at the Department of Army Training and Operations, Army Headquarters Abuja between July 2016 and January 2018.
She was the Public Relations Officer to then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation.
She was the Public Relations Officer to the then Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, from January 2018 to May 2021, as well as the Public Relations Officer at the Defence Space Administration between May 2021 and January 2022. Additionally, she was the Acting Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Army Welfare Holdings Limited by Guarantee (NAWHLG) from January 2023 to October 2023. Until her recent appointment, she was the Staff Officer Grade One, Human Rights, at the Defence Headquarters Department of Civil Military Cooperation. Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele was promoted to the ranks of Captain, Major, and Lieutenant Colonel in the Nigerian Army in 2012, 2016, and 2021 respectively.
A sound intellectual with instructional abilities, she has delivered several lectures during seminars, conferences, and workshops. Some of these include: “Enhancing a Professionally Responsive Nigerian Army in the Discharge of its Constitutional Roles: The Gender Perspective” at the Nigerian Army Women Corps Convention Abuja in 2022; “Gender Mainstreaming in Peace Support Operations” to participants of Naval Warfare Course 7/23 at the Naval War College of Nigeria, Calabar in 2023; and “Gender Inclusion and Career Planning in the Nigerian Army: Female Officers in Perspective” during the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary Career Week for Officers in 2025, among others. Lieutenant Colonel OA Anele is an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and a holder of the Forces Service Star Award of the Nigerian Army. Her hobbies include reading, taking long walks, and listening to music. She is happily married.