The Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, has been invested as the Grand Patron of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative (SHA) 2026 in recognition of his outstanding leadership, unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining, and remarkable contributions to national service.
The honour was conferred on Saturday during the 2026 edition of the Silent Heroes Awards held in Abuja, placing Onoja among an elite group of distinguished Nigerians celebrated for their exceptional service, resilience, and dedication to advancing national development across key sectors.
The ceremony, themed “Invisible Light, Illuminating Lives,” celebrated outstanding Nigerians from the security, governance, public and private sectors whose quiet but impactful contributions continue to strengthen the nation’s development.
Speaking at the event, the Convener of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative, Mr. Odita Sunday, said the awards, established in 2018, were designed to recognise Nigerians whose sacrifices and commitment to service often go unnoticed despite their profound impact on society.
According to him, the initiative has remained steadfast over the past eight years in celebrating individuals who exemplify integrity, discipline, innovation, patriotism, and selfless service, while promoting a culture that places national interest above personal recognition.
He described Onoja as an exceptional public servant whose visionary leadership has strengthened Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly through the NSCDC Mining Marshals’ sustained crackdown on illegal mining, thereby safeguarding the nation’s solid mineral resources.
Sunday noted that beyond his operational achievements, Onoja’s consistent support for the ideals of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative and his commitment to promoting excellence in public service made him eminently deserving of the investiture as Grand Patron.
The convener also appreciated the support of partners and stakeholders who have sustained the initiative over the years, while acknowledging the mentorship and encouragement of notable personalities, including the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunde Ogunsakin, retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Taiwo Lakanu, Dr. Matthew Ibadin, and other supporters of the initiative.
Responding after receiving the honour, Onoja expressed profound appreciation to the organisers for finding him worthy of the recognition, describing the investiture as both a privilege and a renewed call to greater national service.
He dedicated the honour first to the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, for providing the visionary leadership and institutional support that have enabled the Mining Marshals to effectively discharge their mandate.
The Mining Marshals Commander also dedicated the recognition to the officers and men of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, commending their courage, professionalism, resilience, and unwavering commitment in confronting illegal mining activities across the country despite the enormous risks associated with the assignment.
According to him, the recognition belong to every member of the unit whose daily sacrifices continue to protect Nigeria’s critical mineral resources while supporting the Federal Government’s drive to sanitise the solid minerals sector.
Onoja reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals and deepening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to protect the nation’s mineral wealth, promote lawful mining activities, and contribute to sustainable national development.
The investiture added to a growing list of honours earned by the Mining Marshals Commander in recognition of his uncompromising campaign against illegal mining, a critical national challenge with far-reaching implications for security, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.
Other prominent award recipients included Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who received the Silent Hero Award for Education and Infrastructure Development; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, honoured for his contributions to defence media operations; Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, recognised as the Silent Hero of Food Security; and Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, who received the Silent Hero in Governance Award, alongside several other distinguished Nigerians.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the book, “Nigeria’s Silent Heroes,” presented by the Special Guest of Honour. The publication chronicles the inspiring stories of remarkable Nigerians whose quiet sacrifices and enduring commitment continue to shape the nation’s progress without seeking public recognition.
For many participants, the event served not only as a celebration of excellence but also as a reminder that the true architects of national development are often those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, driven by duty, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.
