Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, has been honoured as the Grand Patron of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative (SHA) 2026. The recognition was conferred on him for his relentless fight against illegal mining and his contributions to national service.
Recognition for Outstanding Service
The award was presented on Saturday, June 27, during the 2026 edition of the Silent Heroes Awards held in Abuja. The event celebrated Nigerians from the security, governance, public, and private sectors whose contributions have significantly driven national development. The ceremony was themed “Invisible Light, Illuminating Lives,” focusing on individuals whose efforts often go unnoticed despite their profound impact on society.
Convener Praises Onoja's Leadership
Speaking at the event, the Convener of the Silent Heroes Awards Initiative, Mr. Odita Sunday, stated that the award was established to recognise Nigerians whose dedication and sacrifices have contributed to national growth. According to him, the initiative, founded in 2018, continues to celebrate individuals who demonstrate integrity, discipline, innovation, patriotism, and commitment to public service. Sunday described Onoja as an outstanding public servant whose leadership has strengthened Nigeria's security efforts and significantly contributed to the fight against illegal mining. He noted that Onoja's role as Commander of the NSCDC Mining Marshals and his dedication to promoting excellence in public service made him deserving of the recognition.
Onoja Dedicates Honour to NSCDC Leadership and Officers
After receiving the award, Onoja expressed gratitude to the organisers for recognising his service. He described the honour as a privilege and a reminder of the responsibility to continue serving the country. Onoja dedicated the award to the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, for providing the leadership and support that have enabled the Mining Marshals to carry out their duties effectively. He also dedicated the recognition to the officers and personnel of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, praising their courage, professionalism, and commitment in confronting illegal mining activities across Nigeria. According to him, the honour represents the collective efforts of every officer working to protect Nigeria's mineral resources and support government efforts to sanitise the solid minerals sector.
Renewed Commitment to Combating Illegal Mining
Onoja reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the operations of the Mining Marshals. He stated that the unit would continue working with relevant stakeholders to protect Nigeria's mineral wealth, encourage lawful mining activities, and support national development. The recognition adds to a growing list of honours received by the Mining Marshals Commander for his role in tackling illegal mining, which has become a major concern due to its effects on national security, the environment, and economic growth.
Other Honorees and Book Launch
Other prominent 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 Olufemi Oluyede, honoured for his contributions to defence media operations; Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State, recognised as the Silent Hero of Food Security; and Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, who was honoured with the Silent Hero in Governance Award, alongside several other distinguished Nigerians. The ceremony also featured the unveiling of a book titled “Nigeria’s Silent Heroes,” which highlights the stories of Nigerians whose dedication and sacrifices continue to contribute to national progress without seeking public recognition.
Recent Operations Against Illegal Mining
In a related development, the Mining Marshals under the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI) recently removed thousands of illegal miners from mining sites in Kebbi State. The operation involved security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, and the police, targeting activities linked to environmental damage, insecurity, and unregulated mining practices.
