Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has received the prestigious ‘Symbol of Peace’ award as part of the inaugural ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ honours. The award was presented to him by the project team at the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Abuja on Thursday.
Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, Project Director Africa for the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, stated that the award recognizes Jonathan’s unwavering commitment to preserving Nigeria’s peace and unity, despite predictions of disintegration.
The 100 peace icons celebrated individuals who have utilized their talents, positions, and resources to foster and promote peace across the African continent. Amongst these icons, Jonathan stood out as the ‘Symbol of Peace’ for Africa. The decision to honor Jonathan was made after extensive consultations conducted by the project team.
Ambassador Amafibe described Jonathan as a symbol of peace, self-sacrifice for the nation, and a true leader who serves as a role model for young people not just in Nigeria, but throughout Africa.
He also praised Jonathan for his unprecedented decision to accept the outcome of the 2015 Presidential election, solidifying a peaceful civilian-to-civilian transition and averting potential chaos and the predicted disintegration of Nigeria. Today, Jonathan holds a revered position among the 100 most notable peace icons, recognized for their dedication to promoting peace and justice in their respective communities, countries, and the world at large.
In his acceptance speech, Jonathan expressed his gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to the peace, unity, and progress of Nigeria. He further implored leaders at all levels in Africa to embrace democratic principles as they strive to build a better continent for all.
It is worth noting that Jonathan made history in 2015 when he gracefully conceded defeat in the presidential election and promptly congratulated his opponent, Muhammadu Buhari. This act of selflessness defied predictions of violent bloodshed in Nigeria and fulfilled his promise that he would not sacrifice the lives of Nigerians for his political ambitions.
Jonathan’s display of statesmanship continues to resonate globally, earning him both local and international accolades. These include the African Sun Times’ International Person of the Year 2015, the Peace Loving Global Citizen award, the African Democracy and Peace Icon Award, and the Martin Luther King Human Rights Award. He is the first African leader to receive the Martin Luther King Human Rights Award.
NAN
