The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has praised the Nigerian Army for appointing Lieutenant Colonel Anele Onyechi Appolonia as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations—the first woman ever to hold the role.
According to a statement released by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Minister described the appointment as a groundbreaking milestone and a significant move toward gender inclusion within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“This appointment is a testament to Lieutenant Colonel Anele’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and modern approach to communication,” the Minister said. “It also highlights the Army’s commitment to empowering women in leadership and promoting equality within its ranks.”
Hajiya Imaan emphasized that Lieutenant Colonel Anele’s proven dedication to fostering transparency and strengthening civil-military relations will play a key role in enhancing the Army’s public image and engagement.
She added that this achievement sends a strong message to women and girls across the country—that with determination and excellence, they can rise to top leadership positions, even in traditionally male-dominated fields like the military.
Commending the Army’s progressive move, the Minister expressed full confidence in Lieutenant Colonel Anele’s ability to excel in her new role. She wished her great success and reaffirmed the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to championing women’s empowerment, leadership, and representation across all sectors.
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