The Nigerian Army has appointed a new spokesperson — and she’s a woman of strength, wisdom, and service.
Here are 15 simple but powerful facts about Lieutenant Colonel (Mrs) Onyechi Appolonia Anele, the new Acting Director, Army Public Relations (Ag DAPR):
1. She comes from a military background
Her late father was a Warrant Officer, so military life has always been part of her story.
2. She’s from Imo State
She hails from Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area in the South East.
3. She grew up in Jos
Her early education was in Plateau — Army Children’s School and Command Day Secondary School.
4. She studied Mass Communication
She got her Diploma and Degree from the University of Jos.
5. She joined the Army in 2007
After NYSC, she was commissioned as an officer through Direct Regular Course 15.
6. She served with the UN in Darfur
In 2008, she was part of the peacekeeping mission in Sudan — representing Nigeria with pride.
7. She has two Master’s Degrees
One in Gender, Peace & Security and another in Leadership & Strategic Studies.
8. She’s trained in five different countries
Nigeria, Ghana, Sweden, Mali, and the UK — constantly growing and learning.
9. She once worked directly with the Chief of Army Staff
From 2018 to 2021, she served as his Public Relations Officer — a big role, handled with class.
10. She has trained many soldiers
As Chief Instructor at NASPRI, she mentored and built upcoming military communicators.
11. She pushes for gender equality
She’s delivered powerful talks about women in the military and peace operations.
12. She’s worked in many departments
From Defence Space Administration to Human Rights at Defence HQ — her experience is wide and solid.
13. She’s highly respected in her field
She’s a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and holds the Forces Service Star award.
