By NEWSCOUNT Desk
The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has honoured the Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, with its Outstanding Operational Commander’s Award for his leadership and efforts to combat illegal mining in Nigeria.
The award was presented on October 12, 2026, at DECAN’s 2026 Conference and Awards held at the Nigerian Army Command Officers’ Mess 1, WU Bassey Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja.
The conference, themed “Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria’s National Security,” brought together defence correspondents and security stakeholders to discuss the use of technology and intelligence in tackling security threats.
Onoja, while reacting to the award, attributed the recognition to the leadership and operational philosophy of the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Abubakar Ahmed Audi. He acknowledged the support of the Corps’ leadership in carrying out the Mining Marshals’ assignment.
In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), Air Commodore Stephen Ogunmodele said military firepower alone could not guarantee national security. He stressed the importance of reliable intelligence in identifying threats, guiding operations and helping security agencies respond effectively.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi O. Oluyede, also highlighted the importance of modern technology in security operations, including artificial intelligence, geospatial intelligence, space-based surveillance and intelligence fusion.
Participants at the conference called for improved intelligence sharing, stronger surveillance and greater cooperation among security agencies. They also discussed the risks associated with misinformation generated through artificial intelligence and the responsibility of defence correspondents to report security matters without exposing sensitive operational information.
Former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant-General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd.), delivered the keynote address.
The Mining Marshals were established in March 2024 through collaboration between the NSCDC and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. The unit was assigned to combat illegal mining, protect mineral resources and support the enforcement of laws governing mining activities.
Illegal mining deprives the government of revenue, damages the environment and can expose mining communities to security risks. The activities of unauthorised operators also undermine efforts to develop the solid minerals sector and protect legitimate mining businesses.
The Mining Marshals have carried out enforcement operations against suspected illegal miners as part of the government’s efforts to curb unlawful mineral extraction.
