An accomplished Nigerian journalist, security analyst, humanitarian, and media leader with over two decades of distinguished professional experience. Currently Head, Defence/Security Affairs at The Guardian Newspaper, Nigeria.
Founded as a response to the growing need for positive national narratives, the Silent Heroes Awards was created to spotlight integrity, service, and grassroots impact.
In a society often dominated by noise, controversy, and celebrity culture, SHA exists to redirect attention toward substance over status, to recognize those whose impact speaks louder than publicity.
Since hosting successful editions in 2020 and 2022, the Awards has continued to expand its national reach, building a platform that not only honors changemakers but also inspires a culture of volunteerism, ethical leadership, and civic responsibility.
As we prepare for the 2026 edition, our mission remains stronger than ever, to elevate service as a national value.
Born in Boji-Boji Owa, Agbor, Delta State, with roots in Onicha-Ugbo and Ute communities, Odita grew up with strong values of resilience and faith. From an early age, he identified journalism as his calling, committing himself to excellence through hard work and divine purpose.
He earned a Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication from Auchi Polytechnic after five years of rigorous training.
He further strengthened his expertise through advanced certifications including:
In 2002, he began his journalism career with The Guardian Newspaper/British Council during his National Youth Service.
Over the years, he reported in multiple beats including:
He steadily rose through the ranks to become Head, Defence/Security Affairs at The Guardian.
In 2010, he traveled to Senegal with the Nigerian Navy to receive NNS Thunder from the United States.
This marked the beginning of his extensive international defence reporting engagements.
Appointed by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. M.D. Abubakar, as a member of the committee set up to reform the Nigeria Police Public Relations Department.
He played a key role in reshaping the communication strategy of the Nigeria Police Force.
He covered and embedded in major operations including:
He boarded the Nigerian Air Force ATR 42-500 Maritime Patrol Aircraft and participated in multinational security exercises involving over 16 countries.
Represented Nigeria at:
In May 2016, he was overwhelmingly elected President of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN).
Under his leadership, CRAN strengthened:
Founded The Odita Sunday Charity Foundation (TOCF).
Through TOCF:
He earned multiple advanced certifications in:
Demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence.
Founded the Nigeria Silent Heroes Awards to recognize unsung individuals making grassroots impact across Nigeria.
The initiative has since grown into a respected national recognition platform.
Recipient of numerous awards including:
Demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence.
Founded the Nigeria Silent Heroes Awards to recognize unsung individuals making grassroots impact across Nigeria.
The initiative has since grown into a respected national recognition platform.
Recipient of numerous awards including:
Demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence.
Co-author of “Essentials of Public Relations for Private Security Officers.”
A prolific writer, public speaker, and bridge-builder between media and national security institutions.
Despite extensive professional engagements, he remains a devoted family man. He is happily married to Ozioma (fondly called OZ) and blessed with three children.
Through journalism, humanitarian outreach, professional leadership, and the Silent Heroes Awards, Mr. Odita Sunday-Udemaguna continues to shape national conversations around integrity, security, and grassroots impact.
