Sensational Nigerian footballer Victor Osimhen, banking mogul and philanthropist Tony Elumelu, and the Senior Pastor of Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), Biodun Fatoyinbo, have been named among the 2025 ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.’

They were announced, among other eminent Africans, at the ‘Unveiling News Conference’ by the organisers on Wednesday in Abuja.

Other Nigerians who made the list include Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General, World Trade Organisation (WTO); Femi Otedola; Amb. Patricia Obi-Abu, Ambassador, Girls & Women Speak; Dr Charles Odii, Director General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN); Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State; and Sen. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Office of the Vice President.

The list also includes Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director & CEO, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Dr. Yemigold Ijeoma Esi‑Sika Gyimah, Founder, Albert & Gold Global Empowerment Foundation; Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC); Mrs. Asu Kunemofa, Director, Finance and Supply, NDDC; and Dr. Saviour Enyiekere, Chairman, National Assembly Service Commission, among others.

While congratulating the recipients, Amb. Kingsley Amafibe, Project Director Africa, 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa, said they made the list for their unrelenting commitment to causes that promote development and peace.

According to him, the peace icons are Africans drawn from different backgrounds who have used their talents, positions, and resources to build and promote peace across the continent.

He explained that those who made the list were meticulously selected based on their consistent commitment to humanitarian initiatives, positive influence on communities, and youth empowerment, among other criteria.

“It is with immense excitement that we announce the esteemed list titled ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa 2025.’

“This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to acknowledging and applauding remarkable individuals and the key roles they play in nurturing peace, harmony, and positive change on the African continent.

“These individuals have showcased unwavering resilience and commitment to nurturing new leaders, fueling economic growth, and uplifting positive changes across various sectors.

“By sharing their narratives, our intention is to amplify the ripples of their endeavours, produce a collective resolve to foster a calmer and more prosperous Africa.

“Within this illustrious roster of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, we encounter a rich shade of leaders, economists, financial experts, sports personalities, religious leaders, industrialists, entertainment entrepreneurs, and traditional rulers.

“They have transcended boundaries and overcome challenges to leave inerasable legacies, with each narrative as a tribute to perseverance and determination, enclosed in the cherished values of Africa—unity, harmony, and progress,” he said.

According to the Project Director, all the 2025 Peace Icons will receive their awards at the ‘100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit’ scheduled to be held between July 4 and 6, in Kigali, Rwanda.

He said the theme of the summit is, “Leadership Frameworks for Governance, Business Growth, Investment Opportunities and Sustainable Development in Africa.”

According to him, the event will bring together economic experts, government functionaries, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and other stakeholders to foster inclusive discussions on Africa’s economic growth.

Amafibe said Africa was currently experiencing its share of global economic challenges, and stakeholders needed to embrace open dialogue to foster collaboration and partnerships essential for achieving economic growth.

“Africa, with its diverse people, landscapes, and dynamic population, presents a compelling invitation, and this event is a dynamic platform for us to come together and explore significant trends, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.

“This will help to create an environment conducive for investment opportunities, promoting communication and collaboration among leaders.

“The summit will feature insightful lectures, high-impact networking, and engaging panel discussions which will ensure stable political campaigns with transparent governance, which will build investors’ confidence.

“It will also promote cross-border initiatives that allow nations to share best practices in areas like agriculture, education, and health.

“This can help African leaders leverage their collective efforts and ease border restrictions to boost trade while maintaining a security framework that addresses common threats.

“As we converge at the Marriott Hotel, Kigali, we hope to harness the transformative power of business and leadership to propel Africa and its people towards unprecedented heights of prosperity and well-being,” he added.

Other recipients of the peace icon recognition across the continent include Dr Angel Josephat Natianota, Chief Executive Officer, HR World Limited, Tanzania; Egyptian ace footballer Mohammed Salah; Dr Abdelhak Najib; and Dr Imane Kendili (Morocco).

Others include Prof Mthuli Ncube, Minister of Finance and Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Zimbabwe, as well as Munyakazi Sadate, Chief Executive Officer, Karame Rwanda Group, among others.