The Nigerian Army’s Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) has been retooled with state-of-the-art multimedia infrastructure to enhance its operational and non-operational media engagements, outgoing Director Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu has disclosed.
Nwachukwu made the disclosure on Tuesday in Abuja during a formal handover to his successor, Lt.-Col. Onyechi Anele, who becomes the first female officer to be appointed Director of Army Public Relations in acting capacity.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nwachukwu highlighted the impact of digital transformation during his tenure, noting that the rapid evolution of media and the proliferation of information channels required a proactive approach.
“To remain relevant and effective, I had to modernise, adapt, and lead the media battle from the front,” he said. “I did not merely react to these challenges, but confronted them head-on—with innovation, vision, and purpose.”
He said one of the key achievements under his leadership was the acquisition of modern multimedia equipment, including digital cameras, editing suites, audio-visual systems, and communication tools tailored for the fast-paced global media environment.
The outgoing director also said the directorate facilitated both local and international training programmes for officers and soldiers to equip them with skills in strategic communication, crisis messaging, digital warfare, and media analytics.
“These initiatives have undoubtedly transformed the way we tell the Nigerian Army’s story—credibly and authoritatively,” he said.
Nwachukwu also disclosed the establishment of a Strategic Communications Centre as a hub for coordinated messaging across formations and units, as well as the launch of the Nigerian Army’s first online television platform, “Nigerian Army Info TV”, based at Army Headquarters.
“This platform has significantly enhanced the Army’s media reach, engagement, and public perception. The voice of the Nigerian Army now resonates louder and clearer, both at home and abroad,” he added.
He further acknowledged efforts to strengthen ties with both traditional and digital media stakeholders in a bid to promote transparency and highlight the professionalism of Nigerian troops.
In her remarks, the new Acting Director, Lt.-Col. Onyechi Anele, pledged to consolidate the gains of her predecessor and continue modernizing the directorate’s activities.
“Maj.-Gen. Nwachukwu’s passion, resilience, and professionalism laid a formidable foundation for the Directorate,” she said. “Your contributions to enhancing the Army’s image and strategic communication are remarkable. You will always remain an integral part of the DAPR family.”
Anele assured the Chief of Army Staff and the leadership of her commitment to upholding the Army’s media strategy, saying her tenure would be marked by loyalty, professionalism, and results.
Militarynewsng.com reports that Anele’s appointment marks a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to head the Army’s public relations unit in acting capacity.