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NUJ HAILED COAS OVER APPOINTMENT OF FIRST FEMALE ARMY SPOKESPERSON

The Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council has commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, over the appointment of Lieutenant Colonel Onyinyechi Anele as the first female Spokesperson for the Nigerian Army. Secretary of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, in a statement, described the appointment as a progressive step towards gender inclusivity within the military. “The appointment of women in leadership roles, particularly in traditionally male-dominated fields such as the military, is crucial for fostering diversity and enhancing the representation of women in decision-making processes,” Oyekunle said. Oyekunle noted that Anele’s appointment is a testament to the military’s commitment to promoting equality and empowering women in the Armed Forces. “We believe that this appointment will not only enhance the public image of the Nigerian Army but also inspire many young women to pursue careers in the military and other fields where they have historically been underrepresented,” Oyekunle added. The union congratulated the new spokesperson on her appointment, urging her to see it as a call to duty and an opportunity to bring her best to bear and stand out. Oyekunle expressed optimism that Anele’s appointment would have a positive impact on the military and the nation at large.

CBN SPOKESPERSON WINS OUTSTANDING SPOKESPERSON (BANKING SECTOR) AWARD

In a remarkable demonstration of excellence in public communication, Hakama Sidi-Ali, spokesperson for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was awarded the Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector) for the second consecutive year at the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards, a statement from Dr Ibrahim Moddibo has disclosed. According to the statement, the ceremony, held in Abuja Intercontinental Hotel, was part of the grand finale of the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Summit in Abuja. Organized by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), the publisher of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest, the awards aim to celebrate innovation and professionalism in public communication across both public and private sectors in Nigeria. During the event, NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Hon. Rotimi Akintunde Jr., Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, commended the award recipients for their exemplary standards in the field and encouraged them to maintain the qualities that garnered national recognition. Sidi-Ali was lauded for her proactive communication strategies and her commitment to bridging the gap between the CBN and the Nigerian populace. Her significant role in countering misinformation regarding the potential introduction of N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes was particularly noteworthy, effectively calming public unrest and maintaining financial stability. Furthermore, her adept communication during Nigeria’s recent negotiations with the United States over newly imposed tariffs underscored her pivotal role in international economic diplomacy. The award ceremony showcased a variety of individuals and institutions excelling in strategic communication and public affairs. This year’s event underlined the critical role of credible voices in shaping public perception, fostering institutional trust, and enhancing democratic accountability. Among the other awardees, Mr. Olufemi Soneye of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) who received the “Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas)” award. Dr. Fabian Benjamin from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) was recognized as the “Outstanding Spokesperson (Education Sector).” The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) shone brightly throughout the event, with Mrs. Hadiza Umar winning “Outstanding Spokesperson (Digital Economy)” and Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi earning the title of “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public Sector).” In the security and enforcement category, Mr. Femi Babafemi of the NDLEA and ACP Muyiwa Adejobi of the Nigeria Police Force were acknowledged for their remarkable media presence and effective crisis communication, particularly during sensitive times. Institutions were also celebrated for their contributions to media excellence. The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) clinched the award for “Best Corporate Spokesperson Team,” while Air Peace was honoured as the “Most Influential Corporate Voice.” Additionally, Unilorin’s Lukman Temitope Omoniyi was awarded for the “Best Corporate Share of Voice on Social Media,” highlighting the significance of digital platforms in branding. Other notable recipients included Gombe State’s Malam Ismaila Uba Misili as “Outstanding State Government Spokesperson,” Sade Morgan of Nigerian Breweries as “Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson,” and Viola Graham Douglas of LAFARGE, recognised as the “Most Innovative Spokesperson in the Multinational Category.” LAFARGE’s CEO, Mr. Lolu Alde-Akinyemi, was also named “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Private Sector).” With over 20 categories covered, including health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance, and crisis management, the awards emphasized the growing importance of public relations and strategic communication as essential components of governance and corporate reputation. Segun McMedal, Chairman of the Planning Committee, praised winners and nominees for their vital roles in sustaining public trust and shaping national discourse. He urged all communicators to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and professionalism. Now in its fifth edition, the National Spokespersons Awards, previously known as the Spokespersons’ Communication Awards (SCA), continue to serve as a premier platform for recognizing impactful and professional public communication in Nigeria. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including past and present Ministers of Information, such as Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, and Labaran Maku, as well as the current Honorable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris. The summit featured high-level discussions led by notable speakers, including former Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, and other eminent figures in the field of communication, reflecting a collective commitment to enhancing public engagement standards in Nigeria.

HISTORY MADE: NIGERIAN ARMY GETS FIRST FEMALE SPOKESPERSON IN 50-YEAR HISTORY

The Nigerian Army has made history by appointing Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anaele as its first-ever female spokesperson, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s over 50-year history. Anaele will serve as the acting Director of Army Public Relations, taking over from Major General Onyema Nwachukwu on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. With years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, and public affairs, Anaele brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. Her previous assignments have included key media and public relations roles within the army, where she earned a reputation for professionalism, clarity, and effective engagement. Anaele’s appointment represents a major step forward for gender inclusivity in the Nigerian Armed Forces. Her rise is being widely hailed as a testament to the growing recognition of women’s leadership potential within military ranks. The Nigerian Army’s decision to appoint a female spokesperson signals its commitment to evolving with the times while remaining rooted in excellence and professionalism. As the army’s spokesperson, Anaele is expected to bring fresh perspective and innovation to the role, particularly at a time when the military’s relationship with the public and media is under intense scrutiny. Her leadership in the Army’s PR machinery will likely be instrumental in shaping the military’s public image and communication strategy. Anaele’s appointment is being celebrated by advocates of gender equity as a sign that the Nigerian military is opening more doors to women in command positions and operational leadership. The Directorate of Army Public Relations, which Anaele will lead, has been instrumental in shaping the military’s public image and communication strategy over the years, with notable spokespersons such as Brigadier General Kukasheka Usman and Colonel Sani Usman contributing to its growth and development.