The Nigerian Army first-ever female spokesperson, Lt. Col. Onyinyechukwu Appolonia Anele, has pledged to maintain an open-door policy and build stronger partnerships with the media.
Speaking at a media parley in Lagos, Anele pledged an open-door policy and closer collaboration with journalists, describing them as “critical partners” in shaping public understanding of the military. She stressed the need for timely, transparent communication to counter misinformation.
She reiterated that the Nigerian Army works to serve and defend Nigerians and not to brutalize or go against the public. She urged the media to help tell the Army’s story. She warned that failure to respond to inquiries only fuels speculation, a practice she intends to end.
By committing to openness, clear communication and a stronger working relationship with the press, Lt. Col. Anele is positioning the Nigerian Army’s public relations unit for a fresh era of engagement. Her approach signals a shift towards proactive storytelling, faster response to public concerns and a deliberate effort to bridge the gap between the military and civilians. This renewed strategy is expected to foster trust, dispel misinformation and give Nigerians a clearer, more accurate view of the Army’s role in national security and community service.
Appointed on April 22, 2025, Anele brings a strong track record to the role. A Mass Communication graduate with two Master’s degrees, she joined the Army in 2007 and has served in top public relations roles at the Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Defence Space Administration, and Defence Headquarters. She is also a UN peacekeeping veteran with training in Nigeria, Ghana, Sweden, Mali and the UK and a certified member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
Her appointment is widely seen as a milestone for gender inclusion and public engagement in the Nigerian military.
