African trailblazers—including the continent’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group; Grammy Award winner Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy; and the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala—among other influential Nigerians—have been included in the 2025 edition of the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.
This annual recognition honours individuals who have made outstanding strides in peacebuilding, humanitarian outreach, and social development across the continent.
The honourees were announced during the “Peacebuilding Roll Call” ceremony held this week in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
During the unveiling, organisers emphasised the invaluable roles these individuals play in fostering unity, development, and compassion within their spheres of influence.
Dangote was honoured for his longstanding contributions to economic progress, charitable giving, and regional advancement.
Burna Boy was recognised for using music as a tool to promote African pride, inspire youth, and bridge cultural divides, earning him a leading spot on the list.
Furthermore, WTO Chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was honoured for her influential role in shaping global trade policy and for her remarkable leadership on the international economic stage.
Others on the list include Tony Elumelu, a renowned philanthropist and entrepreneur, who received accolades for his efforts to uplift African entrepreneurs through his namesake foundation. Similarly, business magnate Femi Otedola was commended for his consistent support of initiatives in health and education.
Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, head of COZA Global, earned a spot on the list for his commitment to promoting peaceful living and his expansive spiritual ministry. Football star Victor Osimhen was recognised for his excellence on the field and the positive influence he has on aspiring youth.
The roll call also included two state governors: Jigawa’s Umar Namadi and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Both were acknowledged for their dedication to good governance, peace promotion, and infrastructure growth in their respective states.
Noteworthy figures in media and finance also featured prominently. Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY and Arise TV, was celebrated for his contributions to journalism and national dialogue. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings, received praise for championing financial sector innovation and inclusive economic policies.
Community-focused leaders such as Zainab Nasir-Idris, the First Lady of Kebbi State, and Huriyya Dauda-Lawal, the First Lady of Zamfara State, were included for their initiatives in women’s empowerment and social welfare.
Beyond Nigeria, the 2025 roll call embraced leaders from across Africa. Egyptian football icon Mohamed Salah was lauded for his philanthropic work and far-reaching influence. Moroccan honourees Abdelhak Najib and Imane Kendili were spotlighted for their respective contributions to peacebuilding and public health. Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister, Mthuli Ncube, was named for his leadership in economic policy and fiscal reform. Rwandan business leader Munyakazi Sadate, CEO of Karame Rwanda Group, was also recognised for promoting corporate responsibility and contributing to national development.
According to the organisers, the selection criteria focused on a demonstrable commitment to peace, unity, and sustainable progress across African societies.
The full list of recipients will be released in the coming weeks, with a formal award ceremony scheduled to be held later in the year.
