The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, has been promoted to the rank of Colonel following a decoration ceremony conducted by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on 9 December 2025 in Abuja.

The event, held at the Army Headquarters and disclosed by the Army Public Relations Directorate, featured the COAS represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi.

Alabi commended Colonel Anele for her “professionalism and unwavering commitment,” stressing that public trust remains a strategic enabler for successful military operations. 

He urged the Directorate to enhance transparent, accountable and timely communication to strengthen national confidence in the Armed Forces.

The COAS also charged the newly promoted spokesperson to uphold high standards of discipline, loyalty and mentorship in strengthening the capacity of the Directorate of Army Public Relations.

In her remarks, Colonel Anele expressed gratitude to God, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS for what she described as visionary leadership and mentorship that shaped her career.

The ceremony was attended by senior officers, retired commanders—including former Army spokesperson Brigadier General Sani Usman Kukasheka—and family members.