The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has urged Nigerians to embrace patriotism and selfless service as essential ingredients for national progress. His charge came at the 7th edition of the Nigeria Silent Heroes Awards, held on June 14, 2025, at the Wells Carlton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja.
Represented by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Affairs, Rear Admiral O.A. Bankole, General Musa commended the vision behind the Silent Heroes Awards, describing it as a timely recognition of everyday Nigerians whose quiet sacrifices sustain the nation’s moral fiber. “At this juncture, Nigeria needs silent heroes—dedicated citizens. In the quiet corner of your room, let us love Nigeria and be patriotic. If we all do the right thing in our homes and offices, it will ripple through the nation and make Nigeria a better place for us all,” he said.
Rear Admiral Bankole also paid tribute to the event’s organiser, veteran journalist Odita Sunday, for his enduring commitment to spotlighting the often-overlooked champions of society. “Odita has, for over two decades, reported diligently on the Armed Forces—embedding himself with the Navy, Army, and Air Force. His passion and consistency are truly commendable,” he noted.
The 2025 edition of the awards lived up to its billing as a dignified celebration of unheralded Nigerians who have made remarkable contributions to society without seeking recognition. The event began with a red carpet reception and the arrival of dignitaries, including the Royal Father of the Day, the Ejeh of Olamaboro and Chairman of the Olamaboro Traditional Council, Chief Simeon Ujah, who graced the occasion in person.
Other dignitaries present or represented included the Guest of Honour, Major General Raymond Nkemakonam Ochei; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun (represented by the Force PRO, ACP Muyiwa Ogunjobi); and the FCT Commissioner of Police, Mr Ajao Adewale. Also in attendance were Commander Jerry Omodara (retd), Security Adviser to the Governor of Kogi State, and a representative of the UBA Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu.
The project coordinator, Mrs Ozioma Sonia Odita-Sunday, in her welcome address, emphasised the essence of the awards. The Silent Heroes Awards are built on the principle of recognising individuals whose quiet contributions to humanity often go unnoticed but are no less powerful. These individuals exemplify integrity, compassion, innovation, and service,” she stated. She also announced plans to scale the initiative across the continent, with preparations underway for the Africa Heroes Awards.
The night featured a seamless awards segment, cultural interludes, and the unveiling of Volume III of Nigeria’s Silent Heroes, a compendium of past and current honourees. Among those recognised were Chief Uche Jeffrey Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology; ACC Attah John Onoja, Commandant of the NSCDC Mining Marshal; Tony Elumelu, CFR; Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetoku; Hajiya Zubaidah Umar, DG of NEMA; Dr Abisoye Coker-Odusote, DG of NIMC; Nicholas Sam-Sedi; and a philanthropist.
Others are Kehinde Adewole, Publisher of Swift Reporters; Dr Dolapo Fasawe, FCT Mandate Secretary for Health and Environment; Engr. Simeon Udeh, MD of SOTEC; Vivian Ifeanyichukwu Nkechika; and Hajiya Aisha Abubakar Muhammad, programme managers at Delta Broadcasting and NTA Abuja, respectively, among others.
Delivering the vote of thanks, ACC Attah John Onoja expressed heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the awardees. “Those honoured here are men and women of honour and integrity. Many of us had never met the organisers until tonight, making this recognition all the more sincere and humbling.”
The evening closed on a high note with gift presentations by Mrs Odita-Sunday to special guests and a moving poetic performance by Olayemi Esan, leaving attendees inspired and reflective of the power of quiet service.
