Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to promoting peace and serving humanity, both within Nigeria and globally.
He made this pledge on Sunday in Abuja at a reception organized by “Friends of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan” in celebration of his receipt of the 2025 Sunhak Global Peace Prize in Seoul, South Korea.
Jonathan, who was honored for his mediatory and pro-democracy efforts across Africa, expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that his lifelong mission has always been to impact lives positively and foster peace.
“I won’t say much, but I want to sincerely thank everyone and reassure you of my continued dedication to peace. I will keep doing my part until my last day on earth. I believe that serving humanity is the best way I can serve God,” he said.
Reflecting on his upbringing, the former president shared how growing up in humble circumstances instilled in him a deep empathy for people in distress and countries in crisis.
“I always felt disturbed seeing others suffer. That’s why I was initially hesitant when approached to become Vice President. I thought I could make more impact managing a smaller state like Bayelsa. But here I am today,” he said.
Jonathan expressed gratitude to the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation for selecting him, admitting he never anticipated the honor. He also thanked the organizers and guests of the Abuja reception, despite initially declining the idea of a formal celebration.
The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who chaired the event, lauded Jonathan for his sacrifices toward peace and democracy.
“This Easter celebration, a day symbolizing sacrifice, is fitting to honor Dr. Jonathan. You have done so much to keep Nigeria and Africa peaceful. Your leadership and actions continue to inspire,” Obi said.
Chief Host Azibaola Robert, Managing Director of Kakatar Group and a close associate of Jonathan, described the former president as a man with an extraordinary passion for peace and a life that teaches daily lessons.
“Jonathan is more than a political figure. He’s a symbol of peace and humility. His character is hard to emulate because of the depth of wisdom he carries,” Robert said.
Ambassador Hassan Tukur, Jonathan’s former Principal Private Secretary, described the award as well-deserved, highlighting his interventions in crises across Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Guinea-Bissau, and Mali. He recalled Jonathan’s pivotal role in restoring peace during Côte d’Ivoire’s post-election crisis and his hands-on diplomacy during Mali’s unrest.
“Jonathan personally flew to Mali at the peak of the crisis, spending hours mediating with stakeholders. Malians remain grateful to this day,” Tukur said. “This award is not just for Jonathan but for all Nigerians.”
Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, praised Jonathan’s legacy as a patriot and transformer, citing his historic concession in the 2015 presidential election.
“He declared that his ambition was not worth the blood of any Nigerian. That singular act defined him and changed Nigeria’s political trajectory. His peaceful handover remains unmatched on the continent,” Maku said.
Dignitaries at the event included Dame Patience Jonathan; King Amalate Turner, Paramount Ruler of Oloibiri Kingdom; Olori Opeoluwa Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, who led the toast; as well as former governors, ministers, and aides of the former president.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Jonathan received the sixth edition of the Sunhak Global Peace Prize on April 11 in Seoul. He became the first African and third recipient of the prestigious award, following former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
Established in 2015, the Sunhak Peace Prize honors individuals and organizations making outstanding contributions to global peace, sustainable development, and human well-being.
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