Renowned Nigerian music luminaries, David Adeleke (Davido) and Divine Ikubor (Rema), along with the celebrated comedian AY Makun, have been honoured with inclusion in the prestigious ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’. On Friday, the initiators held a press conference in Abuja, where they revealed the roll call of peacebuilders.
In addition to the musical and comedic talents, the prestigious roster features distinguished personalities like former President Goodluck Jonathan, ex-Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, the Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and the President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina.
Nigeria’s representation also extends to figures such as the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Cardinal John Oniyekan, Bishop Matthew Hassan-Kukah, and the prominent tele-evangelist Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, among others.
Amb. Kinsley Amafibe, the Project Director of Africa for the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, conveyed his congratulations to the artists and other Nigerians acknowledged in this esteemed “peace list”.
This recognition is bestowed upon individuals of diverse African backgrounds who have harnessed their talents, influence, and resources to champion and advance peace across the continent.
Amafibe shared that those selected for the honour underwent rigorous scrutiny, with their unwavering dedication to humanitarian endeavours, positive impact on communities, and commitment to empowering youth forming key criteria.
He articulated, “The announcement of the esteemed list titled ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ fills us with immense excitement. This initiative underscores our commitment to acknowledging and celebrating remarkable individuals and groups that have played pivotal roles in nurturing peace, harmony, and positive transformation across the African continent.”
He continued, emphasising that the initiative celebrates the relentless efforts of those who have consistently laboured to mitigate conflicts, advance social cohesion, and foster connections amidst diverse communities.
Amafibe reiterated the initiative’s goal to amplify the impact of these individuals’ contributions and to collectively encourage a more peaceful and prosperous Africa.
Within this notable lineup of ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, a tapestry of leaders, economists, financial experts, sports personalities, religious leaders, industrialists, entertainment entrepreneurs, and traditional rulers emerges. These individuals have transcended barriers and surmounted challenges to leave indelible legacies that embody cherished African values of unity, harmony, and progress.
Profiles and accomplishments of these icons have been spotlighted on the official website of the initiative, www.100mostnotable.org, serving as a digital monument commemorating their contributions across Africa and beyond.
Among other distinguished figures, the recognition extends to Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, Kenyan President William Ruto, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Joyce Hilda-Banda, the First Female President of Malawi. Furthermore, Cameroon’s former football star Samuel Eto’o Fils, veteran Ghanaian actor John Dumelo, American-born Senegalese singer Akon, and the First Lady of Namibia, Monica Geingos, are also among the esteemed peace icons.
The “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa” initiative stands as a tribute to hope, unity, and progress for the continent. Amafibe called upon Africans to join forces in shaping a future where peace and prosperity thrive through education, empowerment, and sustainable development.
The unveiling of this honour transcends symbolic representation and serves as a call to action—an invitation to perpetuate the values embodied by these African icons. This commemoration plaque will stand as a perpetual reminder for present and future generations that peace encompasses more than the absence of conflict—it embraces the proactive cultivation of understanding, collaboration, and shared advancement. The legacy of these African icons will endure as an everlasting wellspring of inspiration for individuals, nations, and the entire African continent.
