By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (Nigerian Army Medal), on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, decorated the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, with the rank of Colonel in recognition of her dedication, professionalism and exemplary service to the Nigerian Army.
The decoration ceremony, which held at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, was performed on behalf of the COAS by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi.
In a statement issued by the Acting Staff Officer 1, Information/Publicity, Headquarters Directorate of Army Public Relations, Major Akinola Ajibola, the COAS commended Colonel Anele for her unwavering commitment and charged the Directorate of Army Public Relations to continue projecting the image of the Nigerian Army in a responsible, credible and professional manner.
The Army Chief underscored the critical role of public trust as a strategic enabler for successful military operations, stressing that transparent, accountable and timely communication remains essential in strengthening public confidence in the Armed Forces. He urged the Directorate to sustain effective strategic communication in line with best global practices.
Lieutenant General Shaibu further tasked the Acting Director to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and loyalty, while mentoring junior officers to enhance the effectiveness and overall capacity of the Directorate.
In her vote of thanks, Colonel Appolonia Anele expressed gratitude to God Almighty, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff for their leadership, guidance and mentorship, which she described as instrumental to her career progression.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including former Director of 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.
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