The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on 9 December 2025 decorated the Acting Director, Army Public Relations (APR), Appolonia Anele, with the rank of Colonel in recognition of her unwavering dedication and exceptional service to the Nigerian Army.
Speaking at the brief but dignified ceremony held at Army Headquarters, Abuja, the COAS, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, commended Colonel Anele for her professionalism, discipline and steadfast commitment to duty. He charged the Directorate of Army Public Relations to sustain responsible and credible projection of the Nigerian Army’s image at all times.
General Shaibu emphasized that public trust remains indispensable to the success of military operations, urging the Directorate to strengthen transparent, accountable and timely communication. Effective strategic communication, he noted, is essential to bolstering national confidence in the Armed Forces.
The Army Chief further tasked the newly decorated Colonel to uphold the highest standards of leadership while mentoring her subordinates to the Directorate’s operational effectiveness and capacity.
In her vote of thanks, Colonel Appolonia Anele expressed profound appreciation to Almighty God, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS for their visionary leadership and mentorship. She described their support as pivotal to her professional growth and career progression.
The event was attended by dignitaries including former Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka (Rtd), Colonel Mustapha Anka (Rtd), senior serving and retired officers, family members, friends and well-wishers.
By Folake Sokoya
For stories, updates, inquiries and advert placements, visit fasnewsng.com or email [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).