Anele assumes duty as army’s first female spokesperson

Onyinyechi Anele has assumed duty as the first female director of army public relations.

The army headquarters recently appointed Anele, a lieutenant colonel, as its acting director of the directorate of public relations.

She took over on Tuesday from Onyema Nwachukwu, a major-general, who has been posted to the Nigerian Heritage and Future Centre, Giri Abuja.

The new army spokesperson said she recognised the enormous responsibilities that come with the office, as well as the expectations and the historic significance of her appointment.

She promised to uphold professionalism as the first female officer to be entrusted with such a strategic role as army spokesperson in the history of the Nigerian Army and indeed the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

She thanked Olufemi Oluyede, the chief of army staff (COAS), for finding her worthy of the appointment.

“I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused, and results-driven,” she said.

Anele commended her immediate predecessor, Nwachukwu, for his passion, resilience, and professionalism, adding that he had laid a formidable foundation and transformed the directorate to an enviable state.

According to her, Nwachukwu’s contributions to enhancing the image and strategic communication of the Nigerian Army over the years are remarkable.

She urged the media to continue to support the army as partners in progress and commended the defence correspondents for their professionalism in reporting military activities.

The new spokesperson also encouraged the media to continue to uphold truth, fairness, and responsibility in their engagements for the good of the nation.

”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian army,” she said.

“I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty.

“As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.

“We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility, and service to the nation.”