The outgoing Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, has officially handed over the reins of the Directorate after nearly four impactful years of service.
The ceremony, held at the Army Headquarters Conference Room, marked a reflective and emotional farewell as he recounted his tenure and the transformational strides achieved under his leadership.
Addressing senior officers, personnel, media representatives, and guests at the occasion, Major General Nwachukwu expressed deep gratitude to God and the Nigerian Army for the opportunity to serve, describing his time in office as both fulfilling and challenging.
“When I assumed this noble responsibility on 16 June 2021, I was fully aware of the enormous expectations that came with it, especially in an era defined by the rapid evolution of the digital media landscape,” he said. “I knew that to remain relevant and effective, I had to modernize, adapt, and lead the media war from the front.”. 
Among his key achievements, he highlighted the retooling of the Directorate with state-of-the-art multimedia equipment and the establishment of a Strategic Communications Centre to enhance the Army’s messaging capabilities. Under his leadership, the Directorate launched the Nigerian Army Info TV—an online television platform with a fully equipped studio dedicated to producing documentaries, news features, and audiovisual content aimed at amplifying the Army’s voice.
He also emphasized human capital development as a major focus of his administration, noting that officers and soldiers underwent specialized training both locally and internationally. “This has undoubtedly transformed the way we tell the Nigerian Army’s story credibly and authoritatively,” he said. 
Major General Nwachukwu praised his team—uniformed and civilian staff alike—for their loyalty and commitment, and extended heartfelt thanks to past and current Chiefs of Army Staff, especially Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede for their guidance and support.
He also acknowledged the critical role of the media, urging journalists to remain steadfast in their national duty: “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 watchwords.”
To his successor, he offered encouragement and optimism: “The foundations have been laid… The tools are in place. Take the Directorate to even greater heights.”
As he moves on to the next phase of his military career, Major General Nwachukwu expressed confidence that the Directorate of Army Public Relations is now better positioned to meet the demands of the future.
The new Acting Director, Lt. Col. O.A Anele, in her remarks, commended the outgoing spokesperson for his laudable achievements, resilience, and professionalism, noting that his leadership had transformed the Directorate into a more strategic arm of the Army.
Lt. Col. Anele charged the staff of the Directorate to remain steadfast and focused in their duties, urging them to work collectively to enhance the capacity and relevance of Army Public Relations.
She also expressed appreciation to the media for their partnership over the years and encouraged them to continue upholding truth and fairness in their reportage.
Furthermore, she called on all Nigerians to support the Nigerian Army in its mission to safeguard the nation.
LV