Nigerian Peace Advocate Zuriel Oduwole Nominated For 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
Renowned advocate for peace, education, and gender equality, Zuriel Oduwole, has been nominated for the prestigious 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
A press release on Sunday highlighted Oduwole’s extensive global diplomatic engagements, influencing discussions on education and peace while championing opportunities for marginalised communities.
Born in Los Angeles to Nigerian parents, Oduwole has met with world leaders, including presidents and prime ministers, to address critical policy and development issues. Her advocacy centres on improving access to education and fostering systemic change.
At just 13 years old, Oduwole played a mediating role in a territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, meeting with then-President David Granger at the United Nations to stress the importance of peaceful dialogue. In 2020, she also consulted with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on global peace strategies during the Arab blockade of Qatar, which was resolved peacefully in 2021.
Her nomination, according to the statement, recognises her impactful work and “reflects Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.”
Oduwole’s dedication to education began at the age of nine when she witnessed young girls in Accra selling goods instead of attending school. This experience motivated her to use documentary filmmaking as a tool to highlight educational barriers.
Upon receiving news of her Nobel Peace Prize nomination, Oduwole expressed gratitude while emphasising the need for more investment in young girls.
“I have never sought recognition, only to speak up where it’s needed. This honour reflects the urgent need to invest in young voices as agents of change,” she said.
As the founder of Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand, Oduwole continues to empower young people, particularly girls, to advocate for their rights and future opportunities. Through storytelling and diplomacy, she has inspired change, influenced policies, and worked towards creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee is expected to announce the 2025 laureate later this year. Regardless of the outcome, Oduwole’s nomination highlights the growing impact of youth advocacy in global policy and peace-building efforts.
The Nobel Peace Prize, one of the world’s most esteemed honours, recognises individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to peace and human rights.
