Lieutenant Colonel Anele Makes History as Nigeria’s First Female Army Spokesperson
The appointment of Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Appolonia Anele as the first female spokesperson of the Nigerian Army is a historic achievement. It represents a beacon of progress — not just in gender inclusion but also in Nigeria’s professionalisation and modernisation of military communications.
A Watershed Moment for Nigerian Military
The Nigerian Army has reached a significant milestone with the appointment of its first female spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Onyechi Appolonia Anele. This groundbreaking development extends beyond gender representation, signaling a new era of professionalism in military communications.
The Handover Ceremony
The historic transition occurred during a formal ceremony at Army Headquarters in Abuja, where Lt. Col. Anele assumed duties from her predecessor, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu. In her inaugural address, she expressed gratitude to Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede for the opportunity.
“I will continue to justify the confidence reposed in me through dedication, focus, and prompt delivery of our strategic communications,” Anele declared, pledging to uphold the Army’s values of honor and service.
Professional Qualifications and Legal Compliance
Lt. Col. Anele’s appointment aligns with Nigerian law (NIPR Act, Decree No. 16 of 1990) requiring certified public relations professionals in spokesperson roles. As an associate member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), her selection demonstrates the Army’s commitment to both gender inclusion and professional standards.
Educational Background and Career Highlights
The Ehime-Mbano, Imo State native boasts impressive credentials:
- Diploma and Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from University of Jos
- Commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 2007
- Two Master’s degrees in Gender, Peace, Security and Leadership/Strategic Studies
- Extensive international training in media operations and crisis management
Her distinguished career includes serving as Military Public Information Officer at UNAMID in Sudan and Public Relations Officer to the Chief of Army Staff.
Expectations and Future Outlook
Military analysts anticipate Lt. Col. Anele will leverage her civil-military relations expertise to:
- Enhance public trust in the Nigerian Army
- Improve transparency in military communications
- Strengthen media relations and crisis communication
- Implement strategic reforms in Army public relations
Broader Implications
This appointment represents more than personal achievement—it symbolizes progress in military professionalism, gender equality, and compliance with national standards. Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Oluyede’s decision sets a precedent for female leadership in African defense institutions.
As Nigeria continues modernizing its armed forces, Lt. Col. Anele’s leadership is poised to reshape military-civilian relations through strategic, transparent communication.