Lt.-Col. Onyinyechi Anele, on Tuesday, took over command of the Directorate of Army Public Relations as the first female officer to hold the position in the Nigerian Army.
Ms Anele, whose appointment is in acting capacity, took over from the erstwhile Director, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, who has been posted to the Nigerian Heritage and Future Centre, Giri Abuja.
In her remarks, Ms Anele said she recognised the enormous responsibilities that come with the office, as well as the expectations and the historic significance of her appointment.
She promised to uphold professionalism as the first female officer to be entrusted with such strategic role as army spokesperson in the history of the Nigerian army and indeed Armed Forces of Nigeria.
She thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for finding her worthy of the appointment.
”I assure you and the entire leadership of the Nigerian Army that I will justify this confidence by remaining absolutely loyal, committed, focused and results-driven,” she said.
Ms Anele commended her immediate predecessor, Nwachukwu, for his passion, resilience, and professionalism, adding that he had laid a formidable foundation and transformed the directorate to an enviable state.
According to her, Nwachukwu’s contributions to enhancing the image and strategic communication of the Nigerian army over the years are remarkable.
She urged the media to continue to support the army as partners in progress, and commended the defence correspondents for their professionalism in reporting military activities.
The new spokesperson also encouraged the media to continue to uphold truth, fairness and responsibility in their engagements for the good of the nation.
”It is my pleasure to appreciate all Nigerians for their trust and support to the Nigerian army.
”I urge you to continue to support the Nigerian Army as we work tirelessly to safeguard our nation’s peace, unity, and sovereignty.
”As I begin this journey, I pledge to lead the directorate with transparency, professionalism, respect, and proactiveness.
”We will continue to tell the Nigerian Army’s story, not just through words, but through actions that reflect honour, sacrifice, responsibility and service to the nation,” she said.
Earlier, the outgone spokesman, thanked the former Chiefs of Army Staff, and the incumbent, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, for the privilege to serve and as well as their trust, guidance, and unflinching support.
Mr Nwachukwu said that the COAS’ vision for a professionally responsive Nigerian army inspired them to reach beyond the ordinary and to leave no stone unturned in projecting the values, operations, and triumphs of the army.
He also appreciated members of the press who had over the years, been relentlessly and untiringly weathering the storm with the army in its effort at eradicating security challenges in troubled parts of the country.
”As you continue to carry out your vital societal role, I entreat you to always remember that the defence of our beloved country, Nigeria and the protection of her people must be our watch words.
”To my successor, I have this to say; the foundations have been laid by our founding fathers, upon which we have continued to build; the tools are in place.
”Take the directorate to even greater heights. I am confident that you will carry the torch with purpose, passion, and integrity,” he said.
