In a groundbreaking move that has sparked nationwide celebration and admiration, the Nigerian Army has, for the first time in its storied history, appointed a woman to helm its public relations machinery. Renowned security analyst and counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, broke the news via his official X handle, announcing the historic development with the headline: “Army Appoints First Female Spokesperson.”
Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anaele, a seasoned and highly respected officer, has been named the acting Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR). Her appointment not only shatters a decades-long gender barrier but also ushers in a new era of inclusion, professionalism, and innovation within the military’s communications arm.
Anaele is set to take over the reins from Major General Onyema Nwachukwu on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in a formal handover ceremony already being finalized by top military authorities. Sources within Defence Headquarters have confirmed her appointment, lauding her exceptional record, strategic brilliance, and refined communication skills as key factors that influenced the historic decision.
Her rise to this prestigious role marks a significant milestone in the over 50-year history of the Nigerian Army, which has never before had a female officer occupy the influential position of spokesperson. Anaele’s new role places her at the center of the Army’s engagement with both the public and the press, where her voice and expertise will shape national perception, strategic narratives, and the institution’s image on a global stage.
Analysts and gender advocates alike have hailed the move as a bold step toward bridging gender gaps within the military hierarchy and empowering a new generation of female officers to aspire beyond the glass ceiling.
Anaele’s appointment is more than symbolic—it’s historic, progressive, and a testament to the Army’s evolving values in the face of modern warfare, public accountability, and gender equality. As she steps into the spotlight, all eyes will be on Lt. Col. Anaele to see how she redefines military communications and inspires the next wave of female leadership in uniform.
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