From David Onuoja, Abuja
The acting spokesperson, (Director of Army Public Relations), Nigerian Army, Lt. Col Appolonia Anele, has been promoted to the rank of Colonel.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, while decorating Col. Anele at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, praised her steadfast, dedication, describing her rise as both earned and essential.
Colonel Anele’s elevation came after years of unwavering service, relentless professionalism, and a reputation for disciplined communication in one of the military’s most demanding directorates.
He said, Public trust, is no longer optional, it is a strategic enabler of military operations.This underscored a reality the military has increasingly recognised.
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According to him, “Operations succeed where trust is strong. Trust grows where communication is credible and credible communication begins with leadership.
“In a time of misinformation, heightened public scrutiny, and evolving security threats, the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) is carrying more operational weight than ever”, he said.
He therefore, urged them to sustain transparent and accountable engagement with the public by delivering timely, accurate information to Protect the Army’s image with integrity and uphold professional standards that strengthen national confidence.
Her promotion places her at the helm of a directorate and shaping how Nigerians understand the Army’s operations, achievements, and sacrifices.
In her vote of thanks, the newly decorated Colonel Anele, expressed her deep gratitude, first to God, then to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS, for what she called their visionary leadership and purposeful mentorship.
She acknowledged the trust placed in her and vowed to strengthen the Directorate’s professionalism and strategic impact.
