By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The 6th edition of the Security and Emergency Management Awards (SAEMA 2024) was held on November 28, 2024, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
The event was organized by Emergency Digest, a publication of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), in collaboration with the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), this year’s event was themed "Leveraging Inter-Agency, Civil-Military Relations."
The awards recognized individuals and institutions for their exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s safety, security, and emergency management. Notable recipients included the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, veteran journalist Kingsley Omonobi, and 14 others.
General Musa highlighted the Defence Headquarters’ commitment to enhancing humanitarian response strategies to provide timely and effective assistance to communities in need.
The CDS cited the Armed Forces’ response to the Maiduguri floods, during which thousands of stranded citizens were rescued and brought to safety under his directive, relief camps were also established to support the victims of the disaster.
General Musa emphasized the long standing role of the Armed Forces in humanitarian responses, tracing its roots back to Nigeria’s early post independence era. He called on Nigerians to actively engage in civil military collaboration to ensure national stability and effective emergency management.
"By fostering collaboration, we contribute not only to national security but also to sustainable development and the overall well-being of every Nigerian," General Musa stated. He urged participants to remain steadfast in their mission to build a secure, peaceful, and prosperous nation.
Major General Waidi Shuaibu, Theatre Commander, Operations Hadin Kal, Nigerian Army (NA) received the Outstanding Military Officer
General Waidi Shuaibu is celebrated for leading successful counter-terrorism operations. in the North-East. During the Borno floods, he mobilized troops in a lifesaving rescue mission, exemplifying dedication and service excellence.
Veteran journalist, Mr Kingsley Omonobi receives the award for the Outstanding Defence Journalist of the year. Mr. Kingsley Omonobi has covered operations in some Foreign War Zones including Somalia, Rwanda, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Dafur in Sudan and recently, South- Sudan.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) received Crime Prevention awards. The NPF has made significant strides in crime prevention, dismantling criminal syndicates, and major arrest of suspects in 2024.
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) received Public Information Management Awards, NDLEA is commended for transparent and timely communication about its operations, arrests, and anti- drug campaigns. Their proactive public information management has fostered collaboration, raised awareness, and strengthened accountability.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) received Cybercrimes Prevention awards. The EFCC has excelled in combating cyber and financial crimes, securing convictions and recovering over 150 billion in 2024.
National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) received Emergency Management Awards. NEMA is recognized for its exemplary disaster management efforta, particularly during the 2024 flood.
The Nigerian Navy (NN) received Community Service Awards. The Nigerian Navy is honored for its impactful community service initiatives, including medical outreach, education support, and clean water provision.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) received an award of Diligent Investigation. The ICPC is recognized for its relentless anti-corruption efforts, recovering billions of naira and prosecuting high-profile cases.
Nigerian Air Force (NAF) received Civil-Military Relations awards. The Nigerian Air Force has been a very strong cell military relations medical outreach programs and community development project. The calves dress critical social needs and build that within local communi
The Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada received the Training Institute of the Year award. The institution has significantly enhanced Nigeria's economy and security by training officers and cadets, In 2024, it graduated officers from Junior Course 18 and Senior Course 10, reflecting its commitment to professional excellence
Lawan Bukar Maigana, Communication Officer, Girl Child Concerns (GCC) received Volunteer Group awards. He organized swift relief efforts for victims of the Maiduguri flooding, leveraging social media to provide meals, medicines, and essentials.
Kings Guards Nigeria Limited received Private Security Company awards, they have contributed to national security by providing top tier security solutions, reducing unemployment, and boosting the private economy.
ACC Umar Abubakar, Nigerian Correctional Service (NCOS) was given Outstanding Crisis Communicator award, Abubakar is recognized for his exceptional crisis communication skills, addressing misinformation and fostering public trust.
His timely responses during crises, including clarifications on alleged hotel acquisitions, inmate feeding, and the Maiduguri flood escape, have set a standard for effective public relations in security management.
CIS Mahmoud M. Adamu, Comptroller, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Katsina Command received Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer awards. Adamu has demonstrated outstanding dedication to national security through his relentless efforts to combat illegal migration and enhance border surveillance in Kataina State. His proactive approach has disrupted criminal networks and safeguarded national borders.
Assistant Commandant of Corps Altah John Onoja, Commander, Mining Marshal received Outstanding Security Officer awards. ACC Attah John Onoja is honored for his leadership in curbing illegal mining activities. Under his command, the Mining Marshal Squad uncovered numerous illegal sites and apprehended offenders, contributing significanti to resource security.
Senator Buba Shehu, Chairman, Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence received Awards of Excellence, senator Buba Shehu has demonstrated exceptional leadership in strengthening national security through effective oversight and advocacy, driving economic growth and social stability.
The event concluded with a call for innovative solutions and actionable strategies to address security and emergency challenges, reinforcing the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in shaping Nigeria’s future.
