Nigerian Army first female spokesperson pledges enhanced media collaboration

Lieutenant Colonel Onyinyechi Appolonia Anele, the Nigerian Army’s first female spokesperson, has pledged to strengthen collaboration between the Army and the media. This commitment aims to foster a more transparent and inclusive relationship, ultimately enhancing the public’s understanding of the Army’s activities and initiatives. Speaking on Friday during a media parley at the Nigerian Army […]

Lieutenant Colonel Onyinyechi Appolonia Anele, the Nigerian Army’s first female spokesperson, has pledged to strengthen collaboration between the Army and the media.

This commitment aims to foster a more transparent and inclusive relationship, ultimately enhancing the public’s understanding of the Army’s activities and initiatives.

Speaking on Friday during a media parley at the Nigerian Army Officers Mess, Onikan, Lagos, Lt. Col. Anele emphasized the importance of effective communication and mutual understanding between the military and the media.

She expressed her dedication to maintaining open channels of communication, ensuring timely responses to inquiries, and providing accurate information to the public.

Lt. Col. Anele’s historic appointment marks a significant milestone in the Nigerian Army’s efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.

As the first female spokesperson, she brings a unique perspective and approach to the role, poised to enhance the Army’s public image and engagement with the media.

The Nigerian Army’s decision to appoint a female spokesperson demonstrates its commitment to gender equality and diversity.

This move is expected to inspire and empower women within the military, promoting a more inclusive and representative institution.

“There are times we have altercations with the larger society; we are Nigerians, and things do happen. We try to admonish our men as much as possible and make them realize that it is your tax that pays our salary,” she said. “We’re here to serve you, to defend you, and not to pick up arms, brutalize, or go against the general public. So please, help us to tell our story, and I am always available as much as possible.”

The new spokesperson stressed the importance of a functional feedback system, noting that unresponsiveness often fuels speculation.

“Most times, when it comes to the military, you hear things like, ‘All efforts to reach the DAPR proved abortive.’ Those are the things we want to eradicate. If you don’t give the media your own side of the story, they will tell it for you — and trust me, you will not like it,” she cautioned.

Lt. Col. Anele assured that under her leadership, the Directorate’s doors would remain open to provide accurate and timely information on Army activities. She expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for entrusting her with the historic appointment.

Her elevation, effective April 22, 2025, marks the first time in the history of the Nigerian Army and the Military in general that a woman has been appointed as the Director of Army Public Relations, even if in an acting capacity.

A seasoned officer with a background in Mass Communication and two Master’s degrees, Anele joined the Army in 2007 via the Direct Regular Course 15. She has served in multiple strategic roles, including as Public Relations Officer in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff under retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, at the Defence Space Administration, and in the Department of Civil-Military Relations at Defence Headquarters.

Her career also includes international peacekeeping experience with the United Nations in Darfur and professional training in Nigeria, Ghana, Sweden, Mali, and the United Kingdom. She is a certified member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

Lt. Col. Anele’s appointment is being hailed as a milestone in the Nigerian Army’s commitment to gender inclusivity and responsiveness in public engagement.

With her promise of accessibility, transparency, and stronger collaboration with journalists, the Army’s public relations machinery appears set for a new chapter in its relationship with the Nigerian public.