A former Nigerian president, Goodluck Jonathan; immediate past vice-president Yemi Osibanjo and the Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammadu Sa’ad Abubakar have been named peace icons in Africa by the Peace Ambassador Agency.
The trio was among the “100 most notable peace icons in Africa” unveiled by the international organisation at a press conference in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital on Friday.
Other Nigerians who made the list include David Adeleke, aka Davido; Divine Ikubor, aka Rema; Ayodeji Makun, aka AY; the president of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adeshina; and the chairman of the United Bank of Africa Group, Tony Elumelu.
The chairman of the Geregu Power PLC, Femi Otedola; the president of LoveWorld Incorporated, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome; the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; the Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Cardinal John Oniyekan, and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah also made the list, among others.
They were honoured in acknowledgment and recognition of their roles in promoting peace in their communities, countries, and the continent at large, said Kingsley Amafibe, the project director of the organisation.
“Within this illustrious roster of ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, we encounter a rich shade of leaders, economists, financial experts, sports personalities, religious leaders, industrialists, entertainment entrepreneurs, traditional rulers, activists, thinkers, and creators,” Amafibe said.
“They have transcended boundaries and overcome challenges to leave unerasable legacies, with each narrative as a tribute to perseverance and determination, enclosed in the cherished values of Africa: unity, harmony, and progress.
“By sharing their narratives, we intend to amplify the ripples of their endeavours, and produce a collective resolve to foster a more calm and prosperous Africa.”
Other personalities who were honoured across the continent include Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Kenyan President William Ruto, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the first female president in Malawi, Joyce Hilda-Band.
Ex- Cameroonian football star Samuel Eto’o, Ghanaian actor John Dumelo, American-born Senegalese singer Akon, and the first lady of Namibia, Monica Geingos were also listed among the peace icons.
- Nigeria’s VAT Revenue Hits Record N1.78 Trillion in Q3 2024 - December 9, 2024
- Tinubu Government Fixes February 2025 for National Youth Conference - December 8, 2024
- Amnesty Says Girls Abused by Boko Face Stigma, Military Neglect - December 6, 2024