The Nation Newspaper

Category: Inside Africa

  • RMDB, marine ministry partner to boost maritime, blue economy in West, Central Africa

    RMDB, marine ministry partner to boost maritime, blue economy in West, Central Africa

    In a major move to reshape the maritime and blue economy landscape of West and Central Africa, the management of the Regional Maritime Development Bank (RMDB) has engaged key officials of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, along with representatives from relevant ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), in a high-level meeting held in Abuja.

    The meeting aimed to align national and regional strategies for maritime sector growth and infrastructure development.

    President and CEO of RMDB, Adeniran Aderogba, revealed that the Bank’s strategic focus includes the establishment of a national shipping carrier, financing for cabotage vessels, development of shipbuilding and repair facilities, modernisation of ports, improvement of inland waterways, and the integration of multimodal logistics systems.

    Aderogba emphasized that these initiatives are critical to positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in the subregion.

    The session featured a detailed presentation of the Bank’s implementation strategy and priority areas, sparking constructive discussions and stakeholder contributions geared toward institutional collaboration and sectoral growth.

    “At RMDB, we envision a maritime industry that drives sustainable economic growth, regional trade competitiveness, and job creation. Our implementation plan addresses critical gaps in maritime infrastructure and capacity, with a sharp focus on building a national carrier to assert Nigeria’s presence in international shipping, financing cabotage vessels to promote indigenous participation, and investing in shipbuilding and repair yards that reduce capital flight. This is not just about financing projects; it’s about creating a legacy of maritime excellence, resilience, and regional integration. Collaboration with all relevant government agencies and private sector actors is central to our mission,” he said.

    Read Also: Why African wealth remains trapped underground, by Maritime Bank

    The meeting brought together key maritime and economic development stakeholders including officials from the Federal Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

    Participants commended the RMDB for its visionary plan and reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate with the Bank in achieving shared national objectives. The meeting also identified areas of potential synergy, particularly in policy alignment, infrastructure investment, regulatory support, and access to finance for local maritime operators. An inter-ministerial committee is to be set up to provide immediate policy support for projects implementation.

    With the RMDB expected to play a catalytic role in mobilising financing and technical expertise across West and Central Africa, the meeting marks a pivotal moment in the drive to reposition Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy as a pillar of sustainable development and regional leadership.

  • World leaders, business executives for 17th U.S.-Africa summit in Angola

    World leaders, business executives for 17th U.S.-Africa summit in Angola

    The Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) will host the 17th U.S.-Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola from June 22 to 25, bringing together global leaders, African presidents, U.S. government officials, and top business executives to advance trade and investment ties between the U.S. and Africa.

    Themed “Pathways to Prosperity: A Shared Vision for U.S.-Africa Partnership,” the summit will explore strategies to boost economic growth, improve the investment climate, and foster mutually beneficial partnerships between American and African enterprises.

    Over 1,500 participants are expected, including policymakers, investors, and corporate executives. 

    The agenda includes high-level dialogues, policy discussions, and potential investment agreements focused on key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, healthcare, digital technology, agribusiness, creative industries, and sustainable finance.

    In a statement, CCA Chairman John Olajide encouraged African business leaders, especially Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunities the summit presents. 

    “This summit underscores a shared commitment to building partnerships that generate real benefits for businesses and workers on both sides,” said Olajide, a Dallas-based Nigerian entrepreneur and CEO of Axxess.

    Read Also: Tinubu welcomes leaders, investors to West African Economic Summit

    The summit, hosted in partnership with the Government of Angola, comes at a critical moment for redefined U.S.-Africa engagement and aims to deepen bilateral cooperation amid shifting global economic dynamics.

    “I’m fully invested in this summit because of its proven impact and its potential to drive development across Africa. The participation of leading African officials underscores the continent’s focus on investment and innovation,” he said.

    He added that these leaders will present national strategies, outline policy goals, and share their vision for closer economic cooperation with the U.S. 

    They will also hold targeted meetings with investors and global executives to explore specific investment opportunities.

    Ministerial participation will allow for technical-level discussions to clarify regulatory frameworks, investment policies, and models for effective public-private collaboration across Africa.

    Established in 1993, the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) has played a central role in promoting U.S.-Africa trade and investment. For over three decades, the organization has served as a bridge between governments and businesses, encouraging commercial engagement and supporting long-term partnerships.

  • Tinubu-Ojo is a formidable force for change – World SDGs organisation boss

    Tinubu-Ojo is a formidable force for change – World SDGs organisation boss

    Dr. Fubes Ade Danor, Executive Director of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organisation (WSDGsO) for West Africa, has praised Dr. Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, as a formidable force for change and a beacon of resilience across the continent.

    In a birthday felicitation message, Dr. Danor lauded Tinubu-Ojo’s passionate efforts toward fostering community growth and sustainable practices, particularly through her work with women traders.

    “She has diligently worked to enhance the livelihoods of market women by promoting access to training, finance, and technology,” Danor said, noting that her initiatives are helping to close socio-economic gaps and empower grassroots communities.

    Highlighting her dual role as the Africa Continental Grand Matron of WSDGsO, Danor commended her unwavering commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of trade, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

    “As Iyaloja-General, she champions trade and commerce initiatives that uplift local economies and empower women traders across West Africa. Her leadership perfectly aligns with the mission of WSDGsO to promote sustainability and a better quality of life for all,” he stated.

    Danor concluded by affirming that the impact of Dr. Tinubu-Ojo’s contributions to sustainable development and women’s empowerment is profound and enduring.

    “Her vision and dedication have significantly contributed to gender equality (SDG 5), economic growth (SDG 8), and reduced inequalities (SDG 10). The intersection of these goals signifies the importance of equitable access and opportunities for all people, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

    “For instance, the United Nations (2015) emphasises that promoting gender equality and empowering women is not only critical for achieving the SDGs but catalyses broader development. Understanding this, Dr Tinubu-Ojo’s initiatives reflect a strategic approach towards balancing power dynamics in marketplaces and communities, ensuring that women’s voices are heard and valued.

    “As a leader in the community, she has facilitated partnerships that result in practical training programs for women traders. These programs focus on enhancing skills in areas such as budgeting, management, and innovative selling techniques. By equipping women with the necessary tools, Dr Ojo is actively breaking barriers and reshaping perceptions around women’s roles within the economic sphere.

    “Additionally, her efforts towards establishing a supportive network among women have fostered an environment of collaboration and mentorship. In a region where women represent a significant percentage of the informal workforce yet often lack recognition, Dr Tinubu-Ojo’s commitment towards establishing a well-defined space for women traders cannot be understated. Research has shown that investing in women can lead to profound economic benefits.

    “Moreover, the commemorative aspects of this birthday celebration highlight not only personal milestones but also serve as a platform for reflecting on the ongoing challenges that persist within the realm of sustainable development. The realities of climate change, economic inequality, and social unrest necessitate strong and visionary leadership. Dr Tinubu-Ojo epitomises this, actively engaging with policymakers, civil society, and the business community to advocate for sustainable practices that can lead us toward a more equitable future.

    Read Also: Tinubu-Ojo leads Ramadan prayers for security, national growth

    “In light of her birthday, it is opportune to commend her for the ear-to-the-ground leadership style she embodies. Dr Folasade Tinubu-Ojo is well aware that sustainable development does not occur in isolation but demands a collaborative approach. Therefore, she has continuously encouraged dialogue among stakeholders to address barriers to sustainable trade and market access. Her perspective resonates with the findings of the World Economic Forum (2021), which stipulates that stakeholder collaboration is vital for addressing global challenges.”

    Dr Fubes Ade Danor urges all citizens and organisations to join in celebrating Dr Tinubu-Ojo not only for her remarkable achievements but also for her vision of a sustainable future for West Africa.

    “Birthdays serve as reminders of family, friends, and communities coming together in appreciation of one another; in a broader context, it is also a time to recommit ourselves to the shared goals of equality, sustainability, and progress.

    “In closing, the WSDGsO commends Dr Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, celebrating her milestones, her spirit of service, and her perseverance in her quest to uplift those around her. The work she has undertaken is numerous, inspiring, and deserving of recognition as we continue to advocate for a sustainable future for generations to come. May this birthday bring her joy and a renewed sense of purpose in her work”, Fudes added.

  • Africa risks irrelevance without innovation, visionary leadership – Don warns

    Africa risks irrelevance without innovation, visionary leadership – Don warns

    Director of Studies at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Efem Ubi, has urged African nations to embrace visionary leadership, increase investment in research and development (R&D), and aggressively pursue innovation to remain relevant in an AI-driven global landscape.

    Speaking at the 2nd Covenant University Conference on Leadership and Development (CUCLed) held at the CUCRID Auditorium in Ogun State, Ubi warned that Africa’s current trajectory of underfunding scientific advancement and relying on foreign aid could lead to continental irrelevance.

    “Africa is not just lagging, we are at risk of becoming irrelevant,” he said. “Allocating less than 0.45% of GDP to R&D compared to the global average of 1.7% is unacceptable in this fourth industrial revolution.”

    Citing China’s $94.6 billion R&D expenditure in 2024 and the strategic science policies of South Korea and Japan, Ubi contrasted these with Nigeria’s paltry ₦175 million allocation to its Ministry of Science and Technology in 2019. He described this as a dangerous neglect of innovation.

    Read Also: Lafarge Africa launches ECOPlanet Elephant

    He criticised the lack of structured support for technology and innovation on the continent, noting that fewer than 30% of African university students are enrolled in science or technology fields, compared to Asia, where students train in disciplines like nuclear chemistry, molecular biology, and artificial intelligence.

    Drawing from personal academic experiences in China, Ubi spoke of advanced AI-driven labs and robot-staffed hotels, highlighting the urgent need for Africa to rethink its approach to development and education in the digital age.

  • African workforce summit to tackle Nigeria’s skills, unemployment gap

    African workforce summit to tackle Nigeria’s skills, unemployment gap

    Lagos is set to host a workforce development conference as Nigeria grapples with youth unemployment reaching 53% and 3.2 million new graduates entering the job market annually.

    The African Workforce Summit (AWS) will bring together over 2,300 participants on June 27-28 at Sheba Event Centre, Ikeja, positioning itself as a platform for skills development, strategic networking, and direct job placement opportunities.

    The event, themed “The Fuse,” is designed to address the critical skills mismatch between Nigeria’s education system and industry needs, while connecting talent with opportunity in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

    “Africa’s demographic dividend represents a tremendous opportunity if we can successfully prepare our workforce for the future. The Fuse represents that critical moment when preparation meets opportunity, when potential transforms into real economic impact,” said Moses Joel Babatunde, Founder and Convener of AWS.

    Nigeria’s youth unemployment rate has tripled since 2015, rising from 19% to 53% according to National Bureau of Statistics data. While 3.2 million Nigerian youth entered the job market in 2024, the economy created fewer than 500,000 formal positions, leaving approximately 2.7 million young people competing for informal work or considering emigration.

    The summit will address key workforce challenges, including limited access to professional networks, barriers facing entrepreneurs seeking capital and mentorship, and the widening gap between educational outputs and employer requirements. These challenges have intensified as businesses adopt digital technologies while traditional employment models evolve.

    The programme will include more than 500 career consultations covering CV reviews, LinkedIn optimisation, professional headshots, and mock interviews. Additionally, over 250 job interviews will be conducted on-site, and a live pitch contest will provide seed funding and mentorship to three promising small businesses.

    “We’re building a platform that connects talent with opportunity while equipping young professionals with practical tools to thrive,” Babatunde continued. “This is Nigeria’s largest skills-focused intervention, designed to foster collaboration between job seekers, employers, and the broader professional ecosystem.”

    Mayowa Adeosun, Co-founder, COO, and CFO at Sycamore Group, emphasised the critical role of technology in addressing Africa’s workforce challenges. “Technology has fundamentally changed how we work, but many of our educational systems haven’t caught up. We need platforms that help bridge this gap and prepare our workforce for a digital-first economy,” Adeosun observed.

    Nigeria’s tech sector offers a bright spot amid broader employment challenges. The industry has created over 200,000 jobs since 2020 and attracted $1.5 billion in foreign investment in 2023. However, severe skills shortages mean thousands of positions remain vacant while graduates struggle to find work.

    “The real opportunity lies in combining Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit with practical skills development. When you give young people the right tools and networks, they don’t just find jobs, they create them,” Adeosun added.

    The African Workforce Summit will bring together thought leaders, innovators, and employers shaping the future of work. Confirmed speakers include Babajide Duroshola, General Manager at M-KOPA; Peace Itimi, Founder of Founders Connect; Victor Fatanmi, Co-Founder of FourthCanvas; Joshua Chibueze, Co-Founder/CMO at PiggyVest; and Pamilerin Adegoke, Media Entrepreneur, among others.

    It is a significant skills development initiative, with future editions planned for Kigali and Nairobi as the continent works to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity. Participants will benefit from workshops, networking sessions, and direct access to hiring managers from Nigeria’s leading companies.

  • Adeola Amosun reflects on journey in marketing communications

    Adeola Amosun reflects on journey in marketing communications

    When Adeola Amosun stepped into the world of marketing communications 11 years ago, he could hardly have predicted how far the path would take him—from the buzz of the newsroom to the high-stakes meetings of multinational brands.

    On June 9, to mark his 11th anniversary in the industry, Amosun took to LinkedIn to share his reflections, highlighting 11 key lessons learned over the years. His story is one of humble beginnings, steep learning curves, resilience, and the power of relationships.

    He recalled one of his first big decisions—choosing between a job at a financial institution and a role at a marketing agency.

    Although the agency job came with uncertainty, it aligned more with his communications background, so he leapt. Despite being the best candidate during the recruitment process, the early days were tough. He was thrown into managing a Fortune 50 account and quickly felt overwhelmed.

    “I didn’t even tell many of my friends about the job until the fourth month,”

    Amosun wrote, explaining that he was unsure whether he would make it. His solution? Long hours, weekend work, and a level of commitment that made him the last to leave the office on most days.

    Years later, during a regular catch-up session with junior team members, he encountered a young media executive who was in tears. She was going through the same kind of pressure he had once felt. Sharing his own story with her became a powerful reminder that early-career struggles are far more common than people often admit.

    Amosun also touched on the importance of relationships in the business. He said competence can get you noticed, but it’s genuine, long-term connections that open real doors. Throughout his career, he has built relationships across major organisations such as Radio House, Dentsu, Procter & Gamble, Diageo, Beiersdorf, Coca-Cola, and PZ Wilmar.

    These relationships, he said, have led to opportunities that technical skills alone couldn’t provide.

    Another key insight was the value of visibility. Early on, Amosun believed that excellent work would speak for itself. But he soon learned that quiet excellence doesn’t always get rewarded.

    “I played the humble card too much,” he admitted, adding that being visible and owning one’s narrative is just as important as doing the work.

    Amosun’s reflections paint the picture of a career shaped not only by talent but also by determination, humility, and constant learning. As he noted in closing, the lessons never stop coming.

  • ‘Why professionals, organizations should embrace post-Brexit data compliance’

    ‘Why professionals, organizations should embrace post-Brexit data compliance’

    The International President of the Institute of Information Management (IIM) Africa, Ambassador Oyedokun A. Oyewole, has called on public and private sector organisations to adopt proactive compliance strategies, robust data governance frameworks, and ethical leadership in response to global regulatory changes.

    Dr. Oyewole, who also serves as the President and Founder of the International University of Information Management (IUIM), made the call during the institute’s 7th IIM United Kingdom Annual Conference, held alongside the 58th Induction & Investiture Ceremony and the IUIM Honorary Programme on Saturday, June 14, in London.

    Themed “Adapting to Post-Brexit Data Protection and Compliance Challenges in the UK,” the high-level event brought together data protection experts, compliance professionals, policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and honorees for strategic discussions on navigating the UK’s evolving data landscape post-Brexit.

    Speaking at the event, Oyewole stressed that the industry must go beyond mere adaptation and instead lead with courage, insight, and global best practices in data governance and compliance. “This conference marks a pivotal moment in our collective response to post-Brexit challenges,” he said.

    Key topics addressed included UK data sovereignty, divergence from GDPR, cross-border compliance, and fostering digital trust in a shifting regulatory environment.

    The event also witnessed the induction of new certified members and fellows into IIM’s international network, reaffirming the Institute’s mission to develop global leadership in data and information management.

    A major highlight of the occasion was the conferment of the IIM Honorary Fellowship (FIIM) on His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, who was honoured as Royal Father of the Day for his exceptional leadership and commitment to national development.

    Other notable honorees at the IUIM Honorary Doctorate Conferment included Sir Godwin I. Achi, Steve Maingot, Abdulla Al Mamun, High Chief Richmond Hope MacGrey, Her Highness Queen Grace Eganda, and His Highness Paul Eganda—all recognised for their excellence in data governance, digital transformation, and leadership.

    Honorary Fellowships were also conferred on Hon. Abimbola Oluwasona of NIDO UK South, Thierry A. Bayle of the London Fashion Business Academy, Martin Weightman of the Academy of Nutritional Medicine (AONM), and other distinguished personalities.

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    The Institute also presented the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Prince Bimbo Roberts Folayan, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to the Institute of Information Management and his outstanding commitment to the advancement of the data and information management ecosystem.

    His visionary leadership, advocacy for diaspora engagement, and unwavering dedication to institutional development have left an indelible mark on the profession, inspiring current and future generations.

    Participants expressed appreciation for the insights shared and left empowered to implement transformative data strategies within their organisations.

    The conference also fostered high-level networking, creating valuable opportunities for strategic collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders, regulators, and academia.

    According to Oyewole, the Institute of Information Management (IIM) remains committed to promoting global excellence in information and data management, while the International University of Information Management (IUIM) continues its mission of developing visionary leaders and promoting knowledge through honorary recognition and academic advancement in digital governance, leadership, and innovation.”

  • ‘Moroccan Sahara’: UK declares Morocco’s autonomy plan most credible

    ‘Moroccan Sahara’: UK declares Morocco’s autonomy plan most credible

    In a major policy shift, the UK government has thrown its backing behind Morocco’s plan for resolving the Western Sahara dispute, mirroring support by the US, France,Spain and other nations.

    British Foreign Secretary David Lamy declared the United Kingdom’s support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal as the “most credible” path to resolving the long-standing Western Sahara conflict, marking a significant shift in Britain’s position.

    Speaking during a joint press conference in Rabat on Sunday with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Lammy said the UK now views Morocco’s 2007 autonomy offer as the most viable and pragmatic solution to the decades-old territorial dispute.

    “The United Kingdom considers Morocco’s autonomy proposal submitted in 2007 as the most credible, viable, and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the dispute,” he stated.

    This policy change comes after years of Britain backing a self-determination process for the region, aligning with international efforts under the United Nations framework.

    This document underlines that the UK “follows closely the current positive dynamic on this issue under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.”

    It adds that London “recognises the importance of the question of Western Sahara for the Kingdom of Morocco,noting that settling this regional dispute “would strengthen the stability of North Africa and the relaunch of the bilateral dynamic and regional integration.”  

    Read Also: Tinubu’s reforms transforming energy sector, says Sahara Group

    Western Sahara, a resource-rich former Spanish colony, has been largely controlled by Morocco since the 1970s. However, the Polisario Front—supported by Algeria—continues to claim the territory and demands full independence.

    Morocco has been actively pursuing this goal through diplomatic initiatives and has gained support from several countries, including the United States, Israel, France, and Spain. 

    Lammy emphasised the urgency of progress in the negotiations, noting that this year offers a crucial window for a breakthrough ahead of the conflict’s 50th anniversary in November.

    He urged all parties involved to engage positively with the UN-led political process aimed at resolving the dispute.

    The United Nations classifies Western Sahara as a “non-self-governing territory” and has operated a peacekeeping mission there since 1991 to organise a referendum on its future.

    Morocco, however, has consistently ruled out any referendum that includes independence as an option, instead advocating for limited autonomy under its sovereignty.

  • Malawi begins new chapter in fight against esophageal cancer

    Malawi begins new chapter in fight against esophageal cancer

    A new era has opened in Malawi’s cancer response with the country’s hosting, in April, of a high-level delegation of medical and advocacy experts aiming to combat one of its deadliest diseases: esophageal cancer (EC).

    The groundbreaking public health initiative brought together distinguished personalities, including Malawi’s Ambassador to the United States, Judge Esme Chombo; Emeritus Professor at the Mayo Clinic and Chairman of the AfrECC Foundation Board, Dr David Fleischer, and humanitarian and CEO of Encase Consulting Group, Ike Ogbuebile, who joined forces with global medical device leader Boston Scientific (market capitalization: $156.88 billion) led by Art Butcher, Executive Vice President for Boston Scientific; Ms Camille Chang Gilmore, Global CDO; Carl Budge, Head of Global Outreach, the African Esophageal Cancer Consortium (AfrECC), and Malawi’s Ministry of Health.

    Malawi holds the highest reported global age-standardized rate for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) incidence and mortality. Esophageal cancer is the third most common cancer in the country, posing a serious public health challenge due to late diagnoses and scarce treatment options.

    The initiative saw the delegation travel to high-risk areas such as Salima and Nkhoma, where they conducted community outreach sessions to raise awareness of early symptoms—difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, and chronic heartburn—and emphasized the importance of early medical evaluation. They deployed mobile screening units to local clinics, enabling on-site preliminary endoscopic exams and providing life-saving diagnostic services directly to underserved populations.

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    A centerpiece of the mission was the introduction of Boston Scientific’s Ultraflex™ Esophageal Stent. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Fleischer, more than 25 Malawian doctors and clinical officers received hands-on training in stent placement, a life-improving technology that restores swallowing function for patients with obstructive tumors, offering immediate relief and improved quality of life—even in late-stage cases.

    The initiative’s long-term vision was emphasized during workshops at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Lilongwe, attended by Ambassador Chombo, who led the U.S. delegation. The program promotes sustainable impact by combining advanced medical technology with local capacity-building, ongoing education, and peer-to-peer mentorship.

    Encase Consulting Group’s CEO Ike Ogbuebile played a pivotal role in the mission, leading high-level stakeholder engagement, securing key partnerships, and advocating for resource allocation within the Malawian health system. His leadership and commitment to healthcare equity across Africa amplified community voices and drew international attention to the urgent need for comprehensive cancer control strategies on the continent.

    The mission also included high-level talks with Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera, as well as engagements with the U.S. Embassy, the World Health Organization’s representative to Malawi, and the Chancellor of the Malawi University of Science and Technology. There was also an outreach in high-incidence villages, reinforcing the initiative’s grassroots approach.

    Experts say the initiative was more than a single intervention as it marked the beginning of a new era in Malawi’s cancer response. They add that by uniting innovation, training, and community empowerment, Malawi is charting a bold path forward—one that could serve as a model for other nations facing similar public health challenges.

    In his remarks, Ogbuebile reminded the delegation of the essence of the visit and the commitment to stand by Malawi and Africa. “Africa needs us, and we can’t forget the faces, the warmth and the challenges of the people we met during this experience,” he said.

  • 13 Nigerians ranked among 100 most notable peace icons in Africa 2025

    13 Nigerians ranked among 100 most notable peace icons in Africa 2025

    A distinguished group of African changemakers, including several prominent Nigerians, have been named among the 2025 ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, an annual list honouring individuals who have made significant contributions to peacebuilding, humanitarian service, and social development across the continent.

    Among the notable Nigerian honourees are Grammy-winning music star Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, and business magnate Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group. Their names were announced during the ‘Peacebuilding Roll Call’ at the Unveiling News Conference held on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Other Nigerians recognised on the list include influential pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of COZA Global; philanthropists Tony Elumelu and Femi Otedola; footballer Victor Osimhen; Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State; and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

    Here are Nigerians ranked among the 100 most notable peace icons in Africa 2025:

    1. Damini Ogulu (Burna Boy) – Grammy-winning music superstar

    2. Aliko Dangote – President, Dangote Group

    3. Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo – COZA Global

    4. Tony Elumelu – Businessman and philanthropist

    5. Femi Otedola – Businessman

    6. Victor Osimhen – Footballer

    7. Gov. Umar Namadi – Governor of Jigawa State

    8. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – Director-General, WTO

    9. Nduka Obaigbena – Media mogul

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    10. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede – Chairman, Access Holdings

    11. Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu – Governor of Lagos State

    12. Zainab Nasir-Idris – Wife of Kebbi State Governor

    13. Huriyya Dauda-Lawal – Wife of Zamfara State Governor

    Other Africans Listed:

    1. Mohammed Salah – Egyptian footballer

    2. Dr. Abdelhak Najib – Morocco

    3. Dr. Imane Kendili – Morocco

    4. Prof. Mthuli Ncube – Minister of Finance, Zimbabwe

    5. Munyakazi Sadate – CEO, Karame Rwanda Group