Former President Goodluck Jonathan, televangelist and president of Loveworld Incorporated,Pastor Chris Oyakhilome and Matthew Hassan Kukah, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, have been named among the “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.”
They were unveiled by the project’s organizers at a ‘Unveiling News Conference’ of the’100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ on Friday in Abuja.
Other Nigerians on the list are Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Cardinal John Onayekan, Pastor Jerry Ezeh, creator of Streams of Joy International, former Nigerian Vice President, Prof YemiOsibanjo, Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and Akinwumi Adeshina.President of the African Development Bank.
Celebrities who made the list include Nollywood actresses Rita Dominic and Mercy Aigbe, Davido, Rema, Ay Makun, Isreal Adesanya, Cubana Chief Priest,Linda Ikeji,Hilda Bassey, Nigerian Chief and Guinesss World Record Holder , Nigerian International Football star, Victor Osimeh and Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation International Magazine.
Amb. Kinsley Amafibe, Project Director Africa for the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, congratulated recipients of the honour across the continent for making the highly coveted ‘peace list’.
According to him, the peace icons are Africans drawn from different backgrounds, who have used their talents, positions and resources to build and promote peace across the continent.
He said those who made the list were carefully selected for their consistent commitment to humanitarian initiatives , positive influence on communities and youth empowerment, among other criteria.
“It is with immense excitement that we announce the revelation of the esteemed list titled “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.”
“This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to acknowledging and applauding the remarkable individuals and collectives that have played key roles in nurturing peace, harmony, and positive change the African continent.
“This initiative celebrates the dedication of those who have labored continuously to reduce conflicts, advance social bond, and establish connections amidst diverse communities.
“By sharing their narratives, our intention is to amplify the ripples of their endeavors, produce a collective resolve to foster a more calm and prosperous Africa.
“Within this illustrious roster of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, we encounter a rich shade of leaders, economist, financial expert, sports personalities, religious leaders, industrialist, entertainment entrepreneurs and traditional rulers.
“They have transcended boundaries and overcome challenges to leave inerasable legacies, with each narrative as a tribute to perseverance and determination, enclosed in the cherished values of Africa- unity, harmony, and progress.
“The profiles and accomplishments of these icons are showcased on our official website, www.100mostnotable.org, a digital monument honoring their contributions across Africa and beyond,” he said.
Other recipients of the recognition across the continent include Patrick Lumumba, Human Right Activist, Rwanda President, Paul Kagame, Kenyan President William Ruto Cyril Ramaphosa, South African President and Joyce Hilda- Band ,First Female President in Malawi.
Ex- Cameroonian football star Samuel Eto’oFils, veteran Ghanaian actor John Dumelo, American-born Senegalese singer, Akon , the first lady of Mamibia, Monica Geingos are also listed among the peace icons.
According to the Project Director, the “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa” initiative stands as a celebration of hope, unity, and advancement for the continent.
He therefore urged Africans to unite in constructing a future where peace and prosperity flourish through education, empowerment, and sustainable development.
“The unveiling of this plaque transcends mere symbolism but serves as a call to action, an exhortation to perpetuate the values embody by African Icons.
“This plaque would serve as a perpetual reminder to both present and future generations that peace entails more than the absence of conflict; it encompasses the proactive cultivation of understanding, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
The legacy of these African Icons shall persist as a wellspring of inspiration for individuals, nations, and the entirety of the African continent,
He added that “Beyond commemorating these Peace Icons, we proudly announce our commitment to elevating education across the continent. In the pursuit of sustaining peace and development, we are endowing scholarships to 20,000 students hailing from various corners of Africa.
“This scholarship program 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”, he said.
