In a historic leap for gender representation in the Nigerian military, Lieutenant Colonel Anele Onyinyechi Appolonia has been appointed as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations—becoming the first woman to hold the position in the history of the Nigerian Army.
Her ground-breaking appointment, scheduled to take effect on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, signifies more than a personal career milestone—it is a powerful statement of inclusion, progress, and the evolving face of leadership within the armed forces.
Lt. Col. Appolonia takes over from Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been redeployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre. Her selection reflects not only her outstanding credentials but also the Army’s growing commitment to harnessing the leadership potential of its female officers.
A distinguished member of Direct Regular Course 15 and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Lt. Col. Appolonia brings with her a wealth of experience. Prior to this appointment, she sharpened her strategic expertise through a six-month advanced course at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre. She was later assigned to the Department of Civil-Military Relations, where she continued to demonstrate her leadership and communication prowess.
Her elevation has been widely applauded, with many commending the Chief of Army Staff, General Oluyede, for championing gender inclusivity within the force. Lt. Col. Appolonia’s rise is expected to inspire a new generation of female officers to aim higher and serve with pride, confidence, and resilience.
As she steps into this critical role, all eyes will be on her—not just as a spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, but as a symbol of what’s possible when excellence meets opportunity.
