Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Onoja Attah of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has been recognized as Nigeria’s Most Outstanding Security Officer of the Year at the 2024 Security and Emergency Management Awards (SAEMA).
The award ceremony, held at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, was attended by top government officials, security experts, and dignitaries. Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwarbin Musa, presented the award to ACC Onoja in acknowledgment of his exceptional efforts in tackling illegal mining activities and safeguarding national resources.
Impactful Leadership Against Illegal Mining
Onoja, who leads the NSCDC’s Mining Marshal Squad, has been instrumental in identifying illegal mining sites, apprehending offenders, and restoring control over critical mineral resources. His work has significantly contributed to curbing the economic and environmental harm caused by illegal mining operations across the country.
In his acceptance remarks, ACC Onoja expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a humbling experience, even though unsolicited. “This award is not just for me but for all security personnel risking their lives daily to protect our nation’s integrity,” he said. Onoja also credited his achievements to the leadership and policy direction of the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, whose vision and template is yielding the successes abounding everywhere by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
A Ceremony of National Importance
The SAEMA 2024 event was a gathering of high-profile attendees, including:
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace.
National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Zakari Mijinyawa, Director of Legal Services in the Office of the NSA.
Serving and Retired military leaders such as Air Vice Marshal H.B. Abubakar, Major General Chris Olukolade, and Brigadier General Kukasheka Usman.
Various branch and service chiefs from the Defence Headquarters.
Heads of para-military agencies and other security agencies
Civil society organisations and the press
The Security and Emergency Management Awards (SAEMA) honor achievements in various categories to celebrate excellence in security and crisis management.
Institutional Categories: Crime Prevention, Public Information Management, Cybercrimes Prevention, Emergency Management, Community Service, Diligent Investigation, Civil-Military Relations, Training Institute of the Year, Volunteer Group, Private Security Company
While the Individual Categories were listed as thus; Outstanding Defence Journalist, Outstanding Crisis Communicator, Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer, Outstanding Security Officer, Outstanding Military Officer with ACC John Onoja Attah emerging as the winner in the Outstanding Security Officer category, a testament to his remarkable contributions and leadership in addressing Nigeria’s pressing security challenges.
The Awards
The Security and Emergency Management Awards, organized by Emergency Digest in partnership with the Centre for Crisis Communication, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center, and the International Emergency Management Society, recognizes outstanding contributions to national security and stability. Winners are selected through a rigorous and transparent process to ensure only the most deserving individuals and organizations are honored.
A Symbol of Dedication
ACC Onoja’s recognition highlights his commitment to protecting Nigeria’s resources and improving the nation’s security infrastructure. His efforts serve as a benchmark for excellence in public service and reflect the NSCDC’s dedication to addressing critical security challenges.
The award underscores the importance of leadership, teamwork, and innovative strategies in tackling Nigeria’s complex security issues, positioning ACC John Onoja Attah as a role model for security professionals nationwide.