ThBy Samuel Ike, Abuja

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has honoured the Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Attah Onoja, with the Transformational Leadership Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fight against illegal mining and the protection of Nigeria’s solid mineral resources.

The award was presented by the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, during the maiden edition of the Women in Security Summit and Awards (WINSEC) 2026 held in Abuja.

Presenting the award, the Minister commended ACC Onoja for his patriotism, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to restoring order and accountability within Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. She noted that his efforts have significantly strengthened the protection of the nation’s strategic mineral assets while contributing to national security and economic development.

According to the Minister, Onoja’s leadership of the Mining Marshals has become a model of professionalism, resilience, and dedication to public service, earning him widespread recognition among stakeholders in the security and mining sectors.

Receiving the award, ACC Onoja expressed gratitude to NAWOJ for the honour and dedicated the recognition to the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, whose vision and leadership led to the establishment of the Mining Marshals and have continued to drive the unit’s successes.

He acknowledged the unwavering support of the Commandant General, noting that the achievements recorded by the specialised unit were made possible through strategic leadership, institutional backing, and a clear commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral wealth.

The Mining Marshals Commander also reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to gender inclusion, stressing that the unit places greater emphasis on competence, professionalism, discipline, resilience, and patriotism than on gender considerations.

He observed that female operatives within the Mining Marshals have consistently distinguished themselves through courage, dedication, and operational excellence despite the demanding and high-risk nature of anti-illegal mining operations.

According to him, the increasing participation of women in the specialised unit has enhanced operational effectiveness and demonstrated the vital role female personnel play in contemporary security operations.

ACC Onoja further disclosed that more female NSCDC officers and personnel would be integrated into the Mining Marshals in line with the gender-inclusive policy of the Corps and the vision of the Commandant General.

He noted that Professor Audi’s academic background and advocacy in Gender and Security Studies continue to influence the NSCDC’s commitment to inclusiveness, equal opportunity, and the promotion of women in strategic security roles.

“The courage, professionalism and determination displayed by our female operatives continue to demonstrate that leadership and operational excellence are not defined by gender. Their contributions remain invaluable to the success of the Mining Marshals and the broader mission of the NSCDC,” Onoja said.

The WINSEC 2026 Summit attracted a distinguished gathering of stakeholders, including the First Ladies of Borno, Yobe and Bauchi States, serving and retired military and security officers, government officials, development partners, women leaders, and other eminent Nigerians committed to advancing national security and sustainable development.

Observers at the event described the recognition as a testament to the growing impact of the Mining Marshals in curbing illegal mining activities, protecting national assets, and strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

The award further underscores the significant achievements of ACC John Attah Onoja and his team in safeguarding the nation’s mineral resources while promoting professionalism, accountability, and excellence in security operations.