Army’s Director of Public Relations, Lt. Col. Apollonia Anele, Visits Vanguard Office in Abuja

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Background

Lieutenant Colonel Apollonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), paid a courtesy visit to the Vanguard Newspapers’ Bureau in Abuja on Wednesday. The visit was made on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, and aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the press. 

Lt. Col. Anele is the first female officer to lead the Army’s Public Relations Directorate. 

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Key Details of the Visit

• She led a team to Vanguard and was received by senior Vanguard staff:
  • Mr Soni Daniel, Regional Editor (North) 
  • Mr Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief 
  • Mr Kingsley Omonobi, Head of Defence & Security Desk 

• In her message, Lt. Col. Anele commended Vanguard for what she described as “balanced coverage” of Army activities. She reaffirmed that under COAS Oluyede, the Army is committed to preserving Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring peace and security for lives and property. 

• In response, Vanguard’s representatives pledged continued support: to maintain a platform for the Army to communicate its efforts, actions, and policies especially as security challenges persist. Mr. Daniel emphasized that the Army’s work deserves commendation and that the media will play its part. 

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Why It Matters

• Media-Military Relations: The visit underscores the importance of collaboration between the military and media. Accurate reporting is vital in building public trust, especially in matters of national security.

• Public Confidence & Transparency: By recognizing Vanguard’s coverage and reaffirming its commitment to peace and security, the Army leadership signals openness to scrutiny and engagement. For citizens, it’s a reassuring sign that the military sees the media as a partner, not simply a critic.

• Milestone in Gender Representation: Lt. Col. Anele’s position as the first female head of the Army’s PR arm is symbolic—highlighting growing inclusivity within the armed forces in leadership roles. 

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Conclusion

Lt. Col. Apollonia Anele’s visit to Vanguard is more than a ceremonial courtesy — it’s part of a larger narrative of responsiveness, transparency, and gender progress within the Nigerian Army. As security remains a major concern for Nigerians, such gestures of cooperation between the Army and the press help bridge gaps, foster trust, and encourage responsible reporting.