In a history-making feat, Communications professional Lieutenant Colonel Anele Onyinyechi has been appointed the Acting Director of Army Public Relations—the first woman to hold the position.
With her recent appointment which was announced recently, observers say it’s a reflection of the Nigerian Army’s evolving commitment to gender inclusion and professionalism and her leadership is already generating widespread optimism for improved military-civil relations and strategic communication.
Anele took over from Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been redeployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, Abuja.
She brings a unique combination of military discipline and communication expertise to her new role. Poised to bring long-term vision and strategic depth to her responsibilities, Anele is expected to lead reforms that will strengthen the Army’s public image and foster trust through enhanced transparency.
With a background in Mass Communication and Strategic Studies, she has a track record in managing media relations, social media, and public engagement. Her professional journey has seen her take on numerous leadership roles within the Army’s public affairs and civil-military interface, earning her a reputation for excellence and commitment. She notably served as Public Relations Officer under the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd), where she managed high-level media engagements and official communications.
Anele’s experience in the Department of Civil-Military Relations and as a Public Relations Officer in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff positions her to deepen the Army’s connection with civilian populations.
Until her latest appointment, she served as the Public Relations Officer to the former Chief of Army Staff.
Speaking during the handing and taking over ceremony which took place in Abuja, she expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede for the opportunity to serve as the Army spokesperson.
She assured the Army leadership that she would justify the confidence reposed in her by remaining loyal, committed, focused, and discharging her duties most promptly and professionally.
Anele also extolled the vital role of defence correspondents in reporting military activities and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and other strategic partners in professionalizing public communications in the country and their continuous support to the Nigerian Army.
Her elevation symbolizes a significant step forward for gender representation in the Nigerian military, potentially encouraging more women to pursue careers in defence communication.
Onyinyechi Anele, who is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, has completed an elite strategic course at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre as well as graduated from the prestigious Direct Regular Course 15.