A group of African changemakers, including several prominent Nigerians, have been named in the 2025 edition of the “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa”—an annual honour celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to peacebuilding, humanitarian service, and social development across the continent.
The announcement was made during the “Peacebuilding Roll Call” unveiling ceremony held on Wednesday in Abuja, where organisers highlighted the impact of these individuals in advancing unity, progress, and compassion in their various spheres of influence.
Grammy Award-winning music star Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy, is leading the list of Nigerian honourees and was recognised for using his global platform to promote African identity, youth empowerment, and cross-cultural harmony.
Also featured is Africa’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, who was acknowledged for his longstanding role in economic transformation, philanthropy, and regional development.
The list further includes Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), whose leadership in global trade and economic diplomacy has earned her a reputation as a trailblazer on the world stage. Celebrated entrepreneur and philanthropist Tony Elumelu was honoured for his initiatives in empowering African entrepreneurs, especially through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, while businessman Femi Otedola was commended for his humanitarian efforts, particularly in health and education.
Religious leader Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of COZA Global was also recognised for his advocacy of peaceful coexistence and spiritual outreach, alongside Nigerian football sensation Victor Osimhen, who has inspired millions through his achievements and role-model status in sports.
Two state governors were also named: Umar Namadi of Jigawa State and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, both cited for their efforts in promoting good governance, infrastructure development, and peace in their respective states.
Other honourees include Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY and Arise TV, whose work in journalism and public discourse has contributed to nation-building, and Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings, lauded for driving financial sector reform and inclusive economic growth.
The recognition also extended to community leaders, including Zainab Nasir-Idris, wife of the Kebbi State Governor, and Huriyya Dauda-Lawal, wife of the Zamfara State Governor, both praised for their contributions to women’s empowerment and social welfare projects.
The 2025 roll call also featured influential Africans from other countries, including Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah, widely respected for his charitable initiatives and global influence; Abdelhak Najib and Imane Kendili from Morocco, noted for their efforts in public health and peace advocacy; Mthuli Ncube, Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister, recognised for his role in fiscal management and economic reform; and Munyakazi Sadate, CEO of Karame Rwanda Group, honoured for his contributions to corporate responsibility and national development.
According to organisers, the individuals on this year’s list were selected for their proven commitment to fostering peace, unity, and progress in their communities and across Africa.
The full list of honourees will be published in the coming weeks, with a formal recognition ceremony scheduled to take place later this year.
