COAS Decorates Appolonia Anele as Colonel, Commends Her Rising Leadership in Nigerian Army

COAS Decorates Appolonia Anele as Colonel, Commends Her Rising Leadership in the Nigerian Army

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday decorated the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, with the rank of Colonel, which marked a major career milestone for the senior female officer.

Shaibu, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Alabi, praised Anele’s professionalism, discipline and dedication to service. He said her promotion reflects the Army’s deep appreciation for hard work and excellence, especially from officers who play critical roles in shaping public trust.

Maj. Akinola Ajibola, acting Staff Officer 1, Information/Publicity, Directorate of Army Public Relations, highlighted the ceremony in a statement.

The COAS charged the Directorate to continue strengthening transparent and timely communication that builds confidence in the military, noting that effective strategic communication remains vital to national security.

He urged the newly promoted colonel to uphold the highest standards of loyalty and integrity while mentoring younger officers to enhance the directorate’s overall performance.

In her remarks, Col. Anele expressed gratitude to God and to the Armed Forces leadership, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, and the COAS. She credited their visionary guidance for shaping her professional journey and pledged to continue serving with excellence.

The ceremony was attended by senior officers, former Directors of Army Public Relations, family members and well-wishers, who applauded her achievement as a female officer rising to a key leadership position in the Nigerian Army.