An international peace-oriented organisation, the Peace Ambassador Agency Worldwide, has bestowed the honour of “peace icons” upon several prominent African figures for their significant contributions to fostering peace and stability in the region.
Former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan, and former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, stand among the esteemed group of individuals recognized for their efforts. The list also includes notable leaders such as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Distinguished individuals from various sectors and countries have also been acknowledged for their roles in promoting peaceful coexistence. Among these figures are Kenyan President William Ruto, the President of the African Development Bank Akinwumi Adesina, Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank of Africa Group, Mr. Femi Otedola, Chairman of Geregu Power PLC, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, President of LoveWorld Incorporated, and Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammadu Abubakar, among others.
In a press conference held in Abuja on Friday, the unveiling of “100 Most Notable Peace Icons In Africa” took centre stage.
The event was presided over by Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, the Project Director of the group behind the recognition.
Amafibe highlighted the significance of the honorees’ dedication to fostering peace and tranquillity across the continent. The recognized individuals have consistently worked towards mitigating conflicts, strengthening social ties, and establishing meaningful connections among diverse African communities.
This prestigious list of peace icons encompasses a wide spectrum of fields and roles. From economists and financial experts to sports figures, religious leaders, industrialists, entertainment entrepreneurs, traditional rulers, activists, thinkers, and creators, each individual has transcended barriers and surmounted challenges to leave indelible legacies of harmony and progress across Africa.
He added, “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 who have transcended boundaries and overcome challenges to leave in-erasable legacies.
“Each narrative stands as a tribute to perseverance and determination, enclosing the cherished values of Africa: unity, harmony, and progress.”
He also announced plans by the organisation to provide scholarships to 20,000 indigent students across the continent.
He said the group will rely on the contributions and support of the peace icons to make it easier for it to achieve its aims and objectives.
He said, “This scholarship programme is designed to empower and nurture the forthcoming generation of African leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to propel the growth and stability of their respective nations.
“Acknowledging the youth as the vanguards of transformation, we are unwavering in our commitment to empower them through comprehensive training and skill enrichment initiatives.
“We will furnish the youth with the tools of success, we invest not only in their course but also in the collective ascension of Africa.
“These programmes encompass a diverse array of domains, spanning from entrepreneurship to technology, enabling the youth to steer innovation and constructive change.
“Additionally, we recognise the profound import of access to clean water in rural communities. Addressing this critical imperative, we are inaugurating the Pipe Borne Water Project, ‘CleanAqua4All.’
“It is an initiative aimed at ensuring clean and safe drinking water for underserved rural regions.
“By guaranteeing access to this foundational resource, we enhance the quality of life, bolster health and well-being, and engender progress in these communities,” he stated.
