Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, has been invested as the Grand Patron of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative (SHA) 2026 in recognition of his exceptional leadership, dedication to national service, and unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining across Nigeria.
The prestigious honour was conferred on Saturday during the 2026 edition of the Silent Heroes Awards held in Abuja. The recognition places Onoja among a distinguished group of Nigerians whose exemplary service, resilience, and commitment have significantly contributed to national development and the advancement of critical sectors of the economy.
The event, themed “Invisible Light, Illuminating Lives,” celebrated outstanding Nigerians from the security, public service, private sector, and other professional fields whose remarkable contributions often go unnoticed despite their profound impact on society.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Convener of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative, Mr. Odita Sunday, explained that the awards programme, established in 2018, was designed to recognise and celebrate individuals whose sacrifices, dedication, and commitment to service have positively transformed lives and communities without attracting widespread public attention.
According to him, the initiative has consistently promoted the values of integrity, patriotism, discipline, innovation, and selfless service over the past eight years, while encouraging citizens to place national interest above personal recognition.
He described ACC Onoja as a remarkable public servant whose leadership has strengthened confidence in the nation’s security architecture. He further noted that the Mining Marshals Commander has distinguished himself through his relentless efforts in protecting Nigeria’s solid mineral resources from illegal exploitation and economic sabotage.
Sunday added that Onoja’s operational achievements, coupled with his steadfast support for the vision and objectives of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative, made him a deserving recipient of the prestigious investiture as Grand Patron.
The convener also appreciated the initiative’s partners and supporters for their continued commitment over the years. He acknowledged the contributions and mentorship of notable personalities, including the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Tunde Ogunsakin; retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Taiwo Lakanu; Dr. Matthew Ibadin, and several other distinguished supporters of the initiative.
In his acceptance remarks, Onoja expressed profound appreciation to the organisers for the honour, describing the recognition as both a privilege and a renewed call to greater national service.
He dedicated the award to the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, whose visionary leadership and unwavering support, he said, have provided the institutional framework that has enabled the Mining Marshals to effectively discharge their mandate.
The Mining Marshals Commander also dedicated the recognition to the officers and personnel of the unit, commending their courage, professionalism, resilience, and sacrifices in confronting illegal mining activities across the country despite the risks associated with the task.
According to him, the honour belongs to every member of the Mining Marshals whose dedication and commitment continue to safeguard Nigeria’s mineral resources and support the Federal Government’s efforts to sanitise the solid minerals sector.
Onoja reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the operational effectiveness of the Mining Marshals and deepening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to protect the nation’s mineral wealth, promote responsible mining practices, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
The latest recognition adds to a growing list of honours earned by the Mining Marshals Commander for his steadfast campaign against illegal mining, a challenge that continues to attract national attention due to its implications for economic development, environmental sustainability, and national security.
Other notable award recipients at the event included Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, who received the Silent Hero Award for Education and Infrastructure Development; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, honoured for his contributions to national security; Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State, recognised for his achievements in food security; and Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, 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,” by the Special Guest of Honour. The publication documents the inspiring stories of Nigerians whose quiet sacrifices, dedication, and commitment to nation-building continue to shape the country’s progress without seeking public recognition.
For many attendees, the event served as a powerful reminder that some of the nation’s greatest achievements are driven by individuals who work diligently behind the scenes, guided by integrity, duty, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.