In a landmark gathering of Africa’s most influential leaders and transformative change-makers, EUR ING Dr. Chinedu Ogwus, a globally recognized engineer and community development advocate, has been named among the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa for the year 2025.

The prestigious award will be conferred during a high-level summit taking place from 4th to 6th July 2025 at the iconic Marriott Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda.

Themed “Honoring Those Who Lead, Innovate, and Transform Africa,” this pan-African forum convenes a dynamic constellation of leaders from across sectors—public service, private enterprise, philanthropy, sports, and the arts—who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to peacebuilding, sustainable development, and continental unity.

Dr. Ogwus, who currently serves as Head of Purchasing for Engineering, Construction, and Projects, is also the visionary Founder and President of the Ogwus Youth Empowerment and Community Development Organization (OYEDCO) in Nigeria.

Through his extensive grassroots initiatives and youth-targeted programs, Dr. Ogwus has empowered thousands across underserved communities—building resilience, creating employment opportunities, and fostering a culture of peace and civic responsibility.

Dr. Chinedu Ogwus will deliver a keynote address on the topic: “Maximizing Energy Transition in Africa’s Oil and Gas Regions: A Leadership Framework for Governance, Investment, and Sustainable Development.” Dr. Ogwus’s presentation will explore strategies for a just and equitable energy transition in Africa.

Dr Ogwus will be joining a distinguished roster of African trailblazers this July in Kigali, Rwanda, as a guest speaker and honoree at the prestigious 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa 2025 summit, taking place at the Marriott Hotel.

This world-class recognition event will bring together some of the continent’s most respected and influential figures whose work continues to shape Africa’s progress in peace, leadership, innovation, and development.

Among the esteemed honorees are:
Aliko Dangote – President, Dangote Group, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu – Executive Governor of Lagos State, Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo – Senior Pastor, COZA Global, Femi Otedola – Renowned businessman, and Governor Umar Namadi – Executive Governor of Jigawa State.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and a globally acclaimed economist and development strategist whose leadership has reshaped global trade diplomacy.

Burna Boy – Grammy Award-winning Afro-fusion artist and global cultural icon advocating for African identity and unity through music.

Tony O. Elumelu, CFR – Pan-African Philanthropist, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, and Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, a platform that has empowered over 18,000 young African entrepreneurs across 54 countries.

Victor Osimhen – International football superstar and humanitarian symbol of perseverance, who continues to inspire millions of youth across the African continent and diaspora.

Also , Nduka Obaigbena – Media mogul, Chairman of THISDAY/ARISE, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede – Chairman, Access Holdings, Hajiya Zainab Nasir-Idris – First Lady of Kebbi State and Dr. Huriyya Dauda-Lawal – First Lady of Zamfara State

Dr. Ogwus’ inclusion in this elite circle is a testament to his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, engineering excellence, and sustainable peacebuilding across Africa.

Speaking ahead of the event to Newsway Africa media, Dr. Ogwus remarked: said today be recognized on the same platform with such iconic leaders and changemakers is a profound honor. It reinforces the belief that grassroots impact and global relevance are not mutually exclusive. Peace is the foundation of development, and our commitment must remain unwavering.”

The award ceremony and summit will feature a blend of strategic dialogues, keynote addresses, innovation showcases, and networking forums designed to accelerate the African peace agenda in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Organized by DAVDAN PEACE, the initiative seeks to recognize and amplify the voices of Africans who are shaping the future of the continent through courage, compassion, and creative leadership.

Dr. Chinedu Ogwus
A Chartered Engineer, peace advocate, and development leader, widely respected for his interdisciplinary leadership spanning engineering, procurement, and social impact. Through OYEDCO, he has led innovative community-based programs across Nigeria aimed at empowering young people, advancing economic inclusion, and promoting conflict resolution through dialogue and education.

As the countdown to Kigali begins, the inclusion of EUR ING Dr. Chinedu Ogwus among Africa’s most notable peace icons not only affirms his individual achievements but also highlights the rising impact of grassroots leadership in shaping continental discourse. His upcoming keynote promises to add a critical voice to the dialogue on sustainable energy and inclusive governance — themes central to Africa’s long-term peace and prosperity.

From Nigeria to the world, Dr. Ogwus stands as a beacon of possibility — proving that with vision, empathy, and action, local leaders can indeed inspire global change.