The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to strengthen its strategic communication capacity with the inauguration of the second quarter courses at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information in Abuja.
The Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele, who served as Special Guest of Honour, led the ceremony and hailed the institution for its steady growth and relevance in modern military operations.
Speaking at the Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja Auditorium in the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, she described NASPRI as a critical pillar in shaping the narrative of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Colonel Anele noted that since its establishment in 2010, the school has continued to record measurable progress in training personnel for effective communication and information management.
She stressed that the newly inaugurated courses are tailored to meet emerging security realities, particularly in an era where information warfare plays a decisive role in conflict outcomes.
According to her, the integration of digital warfare and crisis communication modules reflects the Army’s determination to remain ahead in a rapidly evolving information space.
She warned that the rise of social media has altered the dynamics of public discourse, making it imperative for military communicators to act with precision and professionalism.
The Acting Director urged participants, especially those in the Advanced Public Relations Course, to approach their training with discipline, noting that their role is central to shaping public perception and supporting national security objectives.
She emphasised that timely and accurate communication now serves as a force multiplier in combating terrorism and addressing insecurity across the country.
In his welcome remarks, the Acting Commandant of NASPRI, Lieutenant Colonel Shuaib Umar, charged the students to uphold discipline and demonstrate full commitment throughout the duration of the courses.
He maintained that the institution operates a zero tolerance stance on indiscipline, insisting that high standards must be sustained to achieve desired outcomes.
Lieutenant Colonel Umar also acknowledged the support of the Acting Director Army Public Relations, attributing the school’s recent strides to her leadership and strategic guidance.
Earlier, the Acting Chief Instructor, Major Nureni Alimi, outlined the structure of the courses, explaining that the curriculum blends theory with practical sessions to ensure comprehensive learning.
He added that continuous updates to the training modules are being implemented to align with current operational demands and enhance overall readiness.
Participants were reminded to adhere strictly to standard operating procedures and uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army as they undergo training.
The ceremony featured the formal inauguration of the courses, presentation of souvenirs, a symbolic tree planting exercise, and group photographs, marking another milestone in the Army’s drive to build a professional and responsive communication corps.