By Abimbola Ogunnaike
The Federal Capital Territory Minister (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike; multi-billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola; Tony Elumelu; renowned veteran singer, Innocent Idibia famously addressed as 2Face; have been listed among the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’.
Other Nigerians who made the list included: former SGF, Boss Mustapha; Mohammed Abdullahi; Alhaji Imaan; Dr Stephen Akintayo; Farouk Khailann and Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Renowned clergy, Pastor Jerry Eze, Dr Daniel Moses, Mohammed Dewji, Mesfin Tasew Bekele, AIG Aishatu Baju, Gabriel Aduda, Tein Jack-Rich, Tosin EniOlorunda. Dr Oluwatosin Olatujoye and Nollywood star, Rita Dominic also made the list.
According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports, they were named among other Africans in the list released by the organiser on its website on Wednesday, 30 August 2023.
Other recipients across the continent included human rights activist and African Affairs commentator P.L Olumba; Rwanda President, Paul Kagame; Seyi Vodi, Hajiya Salamatu Muktah; Josephine Nwaeze; Ayo Animashaun and Prof Stevens Azaiki.
Project Director, Africa, for the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, Amb. Kinsley Amafibe, congratulated all Nigerians who made the list.
Amafibe said 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.
According to the project director, the list was not exhaustive as there were other Africans who have contributed to peace-building across the continent that would be identified and honoured in subsequent editions of the peace-building roll call.
“The 100 most notable peace icons in Africa come from diverse backgrounds and have different life experiences, but they all share a deep commitment to peace and non-violence.
“They have shown us that peace is achievable and that each person can make a difference in building a better world.
“Through their leadership, activism, and humanitarian work, they have inspired millions of people around the world to join their movement and work towards a more just and peaceful future.
“Over the last three decades, our society has been tethering at the brink of global conflict and the pursuit of peace has given rise to some of the most remarkable individuals of our time”, he said.
Amafibe explained that those who made the list were people who have dedicated their lives to promoting peace and justice in their communities, countries, and the world at large.
“As we honour these remarkable individuals, we are reminded of the importance of their work and the impact it has had on the world.
“We hope that their example will continue to inspire individuals and organisations around the world to work towards a more peaceful and just world for all,” he said.
The project director that the peace icons included Political Leaders who work tirelessly to resolve conflicts and promote diplomacy and activists who use their influence and resources to fight against injustice and inequality.
“We also have humanitarians, who provide aid and relief to those in need, especially during unrest as well as artistes, who use their craft to promote peace and unity in the world.
“There are real estate stakeholders, who work with the humanitarians to provide safe space for homeless individuals and agricultural experts, who sacrifice in ensuring Africa is self-sustaining in food production.
“Also included are media personalities, who are dedicated to ensuring accurate information is passed, financial experts, who use their financial strength to contribute to the growth of Peace among others,” he said.
Source: NAN
