Nigerian Army Appoints First Female Acting Director of Public Relations

The Nigerian Army has appointed Lieutenant Colonel Anele Onyechi Appolonia as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations—the first woman to ever hold the position.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, lauded the appointment as a historic and progressive step.

In a statement released by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Minister described the development as a testament to the Army’s evolving commitment to promoting capable women into strategic leadership roles.

“This appointment marks a new chapter not just for the Army, but for women in Nigeria,” Hajiya Imaan said.

“Lieutenant Colonel Anele’s leadership skills, professional integrity, and innovative approach to military communications have rightly earned her this role. Her elevation is a symbol of what is possible when institutions prioritize merit and inclusivity,” she enthused.

The Minister noted that Lieutenant Colonel Anele is expected to bring a fresh, transparent perspective to the Army’s public relations strategies, deepening public trust and fostering stronger civil-military relations.

Beyond the military, the appointment is seen as a source of motivation for women and girls nationwide. “This is a powerful reminder that no field is off-limits,” the Minister added. “With determination and excellence, women can rise to the top even in spaces historically dominated by men.”

Hajiya Imaan praised the Nigerian Army for its bold decision and expressed full confidence in Anele’s capacity to excel in the new role. She reiterated the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to empowering women and promoting leadership opportunities across all sectors of Nigerian society.