Former President Goodluck Jonathan was named a ‘Symbol of Peace’ in the inaugural edition of the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ honor.
The ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ project team presented him with the prize yesterday at the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Abuja, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, Project Director of Africa for the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, stated that the honor was given in acknowledgment of Jonathan’s efforts to preserving Nigeria’s peace and unity amid predictions of disintegration.
Although the 100 peace icons were people who used their talents, positions, and resources to develop and promote peace across Africa, he said Jonathan stood out as the continent’s “Symbol of Peace.”
According to him, the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ team chose Jonathan for the prestigious award following extensive surveys across the continent.
“Goodluck Jonathan is a symbol of peace, a symbol of sacrifice for fatherland and an example of true leadership who is a role model to young people, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa.
“He made an unprecedented sacrifice by his decision to accept the result of the 2015 Presidential poll, true to his words that his political ambition does not worth the blood of any Nigerian.
“That act of patriotism, which guaranteed a peaceful civilian-to-civilian transition, saved our dear country and the continent from imminent chaos and predictions of Nigeria’s disintegration.
“He, therefore, stands tall today among the 100 most notable peace icons, earlier announced, 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,” Amafibe said.
Jonathan thanked the organizers for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s peace, unity, and progress in his acceptance address.
He urged African leaders at all levels to adopt democratic values in order to make Africa a better place for all.