Lt Col Onyechi Anele on Tuesday assumed duty as the acting Director of Army Public Relations, becoming the first female officer to occupy the position in the history of the Nigerian Army.
The ceremony, which took place at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, also marked the formal exit of Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who bowed out after nearly four years in the role.
In an emotional farewell address, Nwachukwu described his tenure as “eventful and fulfilling,” highlighting achievements that redefined the Army’s public relations operations.
“When I assumed this noble responsibility on 16 June 2021, I was fully aware of the enormous expectations that came with it.
“Today, I dare to say with confidence that I did not merely react to these challenges, I boldly confronted them head-on with innovation, vision, and purpose, ” Nwachukwu said.
He listed several milestones under his leadership, including the acquisition of cutting-edge multimedia equipment, the establishment of a Strategic Communications Centre, and the launch of the Nigerian Army Info TV—an online platform aimed at enhancing media reach and public engagement.
Lt Col Anele, in her maiden speech, expressed deep gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, for the trust reposed in her, pledging to lead with “transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.”
“It is a moment I do not take lightly.
“To be entrusted with this strategic role as the Nigerian Army spokesperson, being the first female officer to do so, is historic and humbling.”
She also paid tribute to her predecessor, noting his transformative leadership.
“Major General Nwachukwu’s passion and professionalism laid a formidable foundation. I will always value your counsel and support,” she said.
Acknowledging the critical role of the media, Anele assured journalists of continued cooperation and called for fairness and responsibility in reporting military activities.
She promised to lead the Directorate with professionalism, respect and proactiveness.
Anele 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.”
Anele called on officers, soldiers, and civilian staff within the Directorate to remain “loyal, hardworking, focused and united.
She said, “I would like to implore the officers, soldiers and civilian staff of this Directorate to remain loyal, hardworking, focused and united, knowing that with a shared vision and collective effort, we will take Army Public Relations to greater heights.”
The PUNCH
