The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday decorated the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, with the rank of Colonel, recognising her steadfast dedication and exemplary service to the Nigerian Army.
At the brief ceremony held at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, the COAS praised Colonel Anele’s professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty. Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS urged the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) to sustain its efforts in projecting the image of the Nigerian Army responsibly and credibly.
General Shaibu underscored the indispensable role of public trust in the success of military operations, stressing the need for transparent, accountable and timely communication on the activities of the Nigerian Army. He noted that effective strategic communication remains essential in strengthening national confidence in the Armed Forces.
The Army Chief also charged Colonel Anele to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and loyalty, while mentoring her subordinates to enhance the overall effectiveness and capacity of the Directorate.
In her vote of thanks, Colonel Appolonia Anele expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS for their visionary leadership, purposeful guidance and mentorship, which she described as pivotal to her career progression.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including former Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka (Rtd), mni; Colonel Mustapha Anka (Rtd), mni; senior serving and retired officers, as well as family members, friends and well-wishers.
