Abuja, April 17, 2025 — In a historic move, the Nigerian Army has appointed Lieutenant Colonel Onyinyechi Appolonia Anele as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, making her the first woman to occupy the prestigious position.
Lt. Col. Anele, a member of Direct Regular Course 15 and a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), takes over from Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been redeployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre. Her appointment will take effect from April 22, 2025.
Prior to her new role, Anele completed a six-month strategic course at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, after which she was posted to the Department of Civil-Military Relations. She has also served as the Public Relations Officer in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff.
Until her recent elevation, she worked with the Department of Civil-Military Relations, where she contributed to strengthening the Army’s engagement with the public.
Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the Army’s efforts toward gender inclusion and the recognition of professional excellence within its ranks.
