COAS Decorates Army Spokesperson, Charges DAPR to Sustain Public Trust as Strategic Enabler

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal (NAM), today decorated the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, with the rank of Colonel. This elevation recognizes her steadfast dedication and exemplary service to the Nigerian Army. 

At a brief ceremony held at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, the COAS, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, underscored the indispensable role of public trust in the success of military operations.

According to Major Akinola Ajibola, Staff Officer 1, Information/ Publicity (DAPR) in a statement on Tuesday, stated the COAS specifically charged the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) to sustain its efforts in projecting the Nigerian Army’s image responsibly and credibly.

General Shaibu stressed that effective strategic communication remains vital in bolstering national confidence in the Armed Forces. He urged the Directorate to strengthen transparent communication, accountable communication and timely communication

The Army Chief further tasked the new Colonel 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 God Almighty, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS for their visionary leadership, purposeful guidance, and mentorship, which she described as instrumental to her career advancement.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including former Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka (Rtd) mni, senior serving and retired officers, alongside family members, friends, and well-wishers.