Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to advancing peace and serving humanity both within Nigeria and across international borders.
He made this known at a reception in Abuja on Sunday, organized by the “Friends of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan,” in celebration of his recent recognition with the 2025 Sunhak Global Peace Prize Award in Seoul, South Korea.
Addressing guests at the reception, Jonathan expressed deep gratitude for the honour and reflected on his lifelong aspiration to create meaningful impact through peaceful engagement. “My commitment to peace will not waver. I will continue to do my best until my last breath. That is, to me, the highest way I can serve God—by serving humanity,” he remarked.
The former president recounted his modest upbringing and how witnessing suffering shaped his resolve to lead with compassion. “Growing up wasn’t easy. I come from a humble background, and even now, it pains me to see people in distress or nations in turmoil. That was my biggest fear when I was approached for higher office. I had doubts, but here I am today,” he shared.
Though initially hesitant to accept both the award and the celebratory gathering, Jonathan thanked the organisers and guests, saying their kind words gave him further encouragement. “The words shared here today are uplifting. I’m honoured and grateful,” he said.
Among those who paid tribute to Jonathan’s legacy was the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who chaired the occasion. He praised Jonathan’s sacrificial leadership, particularly his role in strengthening democracy in Nigeria. “You have been a beacon of peace not only in Nigeria but across Africa. On a day like Easter, symbolic of sacrifice, we honour you for all you’ve done,” Obi said.
Azibaola Robert, entrepreneur and Chief Host of the event, described Jonathan as a man of peace with an unmatched character. “He’s left a legacy that’s difficult to emulate. Every day in his presence is a lesson,” he said.
Ambassador Hassan Tukur, who once served as Jonathan’s Principal Private Secretary, highlighted the former president’s significant interventions in countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, and Mali. He recounted how Jonathan played a central role in restoring peace to Côte d’Ivoire following the 2010 presidential crisis and was the only sitting president to fly into Mali during its conflict to facilitate peace negotiations.
“His efforts saved lives and nations. He continues to do so through his foundation, even after leaving office,” Tukur noted. “This award honours not just him but Nigeria. He embodies peace, integrity, and foresight.”
Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, lauded Jonathan as a transformational leader whose legacy continues to inspire. He recalled Jonathan’s defining moment in 2015 when he peacefully relinquished power, refusing to contest election results. “In that single act, he placed national unity above personal ambition—a rare trait in leadership today,” Maku stated.
The event also saw the presence of Dame Patience Jonathan; King Amalate Turner, paramount ruler of the Oloibiri Kingdom; Olori Opeoluwa Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, who led the toast; as well as former aides, ministers, and governors.
Jonathan’s recognition by the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation marks him as the third recipient and first African leader to receive the award, joining the ranks of former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The award celebrates those who have significantly contributed to global peace through sustainable development, conflict resolution, or environmental protection.
The 2025 award was conferred on April 11 in Seoul, highlighting Jonathan’s enduring role in fostering democratic values and stability across Africa.
