7th OurNigeria News Awards: Maj. General Lawrence Onoja to Receive Omar Bradley Lifetime Achievement Award in Leadership
By Matthew Eloyi
OurNigeria News Magazine has announced that Maj. General Lawrence Anebi Onoja (Retired) will be honoured with the Omar Bradley Lifetime Achievement Award in Leadership at the 7th OurNigeria News Awards scheduled for January 31, 2026. The ceremony, which celebrates distinguished Nigerians whose careers reflect exceptional service, patriotism, and leadership, will be held at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Maj. General Lawrence Anebi Onoja, born 10 August 1948 in Idekpa Okpiko, Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State, is a veteran military leader, scholar, administrator, and public servant. He joined the Nigerian Army as a cadet in 1966 and was commissioned in 1968, going on to serve with distinction in various command and staff positions domestically and internationally.
During his military career, Onoja was appointed Military Governor of Plateau State (1986–1988), where he managed complex religious and social dynamics, and later Military Governor of Katsina State (1988–1989) during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
Beyond his governorships, he held critical roles such as Defence Adviser at the Nigerian Embassy in Cairo, Egypt, Director of the Faculty of Joint Studies at Command and Staff College Jaji, General Officer Commanding 3rd Armoured Division (Jos), and Principal Staff Officer in the Presidency under General Sani Abacha’s regime.
Following his retirement from active military service in 1998, Onoja transitioned into politics and national service, including a stint as Chairman of the National Institute for Sports and active participation in national political discourse. He also holds advanced academic credentials including a B.Sc. in Political Science, M.Sc., and a Ph.D. in International Law and Diplomacy, reinforcing his commitment to leadership grounded in knowledge and public service.
Colleagues and admirers describe him as a “force for positive change,” highlighting his integrity, scholarly outlook, and contributions to military professionalism and national development. In recent years, he has remained engaged in civic leadership and public policy, including advocacy for regional development initiatives.
The Omar Bradley Lifetime Achievement Award in Leadership recognizes figures whose careers embody courage, strategic vision, ethical leadership, and lasting impact on nation-building. Maj. Gen. Onoja’s selection underscores his decades of service to Nigeria’s security, governance, and unity.
The OurNigeria News Awards have become a prominent national platform celebrating leaders whose work fosters progress and inspires future generations. The 2026 edition will bring together leaders from government, private sector, civil society, and the media to honour excellence and reaffirm collective commitment to Nigeria’s future.