President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former President Goodluck Jonathan on receiving the 2025 Sunhak Peace Founders’ Award. The recognition highlights Jonathan’s continuous efforts in promoting peace, democracy, and good governance across Africa.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu commended Jonathan’s dedication to peacebuilding. He described it as a patriotic commitment that has earned Nigeria international respect.
Jonathan praised for democratic legacy
According to the statement, President Tinubu said Jonathan’s latest honour validates his longstanding work in strengthening democracy and mediating conflicts. He pointed to Jonathan’s peaceful acceptance of defeat in the 2015 presidential election as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
That historic move—handing over power to an opposition party—was a first in Nigeria’s history and received widespread global praise. Tinubu noted that it greatly enhanced the nation’s democratic image and showcased Nigeria as a maturing democracy.
Global recognition for African peacebuilder
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan was announced as the recipient of the 2025 Sunhak Peace Founders’ Award. The award, presented by the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation, is scheduled to be handed out in Seoul, South Korea.
The Sunhak Peace Prize, launched in 2015, honours individuals and institutions that have made meaningful contributions to global peace and development. The award focuses on three major areas: sustainable human development, conflict resolution, and environmental conservation.
Tinubu thanked the Sunhak Peace Prize Committee for honouring individuals who are actively working to improve the world. He said the recognition of Jonathan not only celebrates his personal achievements but also elevates Nigeria’s global reputation.
Jonathan’s role in African diplomacy
Since leaving office in 2015, Jonathan has taken on a prominent role as an international peace advocate. He has led multiple election observation missions across Africa and served as a special envoy in political crises in countries such as Mali and The Gambia.
He has also played key roles in dialogue processes aimed at resolving internal conflicts, advocating peaceful transitions of power, and supporting democratic institutions. His efforts have earned him respect in diplomatic circles and multiple international awards over the years.
Peace prize affirms continued relevance
Jonathan’s selection for the Sunhak Peace Prize underlines his enduring impact in global peacebuilding. According to the Foundation, the 2025 Founders’ Award specifically celebrates individuals who have pioneered groundbreaking efforts in diplomacy, peace, and humanitarian development.
This is not Jonathan’s first international honour. He has previously received awards such as the African Leadership Magazine Person of the Year and the IBFD Africa Peace and Development Award, among others.
The Sunhak Prize, however, is one of the most prestigious recognitions in global peace advocacy, comparable to the Nobel Peace Prize in its vision and impact.
Nigeria’s image on the global stage
President Tinubu’s public congratulations send a strong message about unity and national pride, regardless of political differences. The gesture also reflects the importance of acknowledging leadership that enhances Nigeria’s image abroad.
As Jonathan prepares to receive the award in Seoul, the ceremony will not only celebrate his work but also shine a light on Nigeria’s contributions to peace and democracy across Africa.
