The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and former vice president of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has congratulated former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on being the first African leader to win the coveted Sunhak Peace Prize. Jonathan’s efforts to democracy, peace, and good government in Nigeria and throughout Africa are highlighted by this honor.
The Sunhak Peace Prize, a globally recognized award, is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to world peace and sustainable development. Goodluck Jonathan, who led Nigeria between 2010 and 2015, has continued to be an active figure in promoting democratic values, conflict resolution, and peaceful transitions of power in Africa. His leadership in overseeing elections in various African nations, as well as his efforts in fostering dialogue among conflicting political factions, have earned him respect internationally.
Atiku Abubakar, who served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 1999 to 2007,
took to his verified Twitter page
to commend Jonathan on this remarkable achievement. In his message, he praised Jonathan’s dedication to peacebuilding and noted that this award serves as well-deserved recognition for his relentless efforts in promoting democracy and stability. Atiku’s tweet read: “Congratulations to former president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, @GEJonathan, on being awarded the 2025 Sunhak Peace Prize and, importantly, the first African leader to receive this honour. Well deserved. -AA”
The announcement of Jonathan’s award has sparked widespread reactions from political figures, civil society groups, and Nigerians across different backgrounds. Many have applauded the former president for his continued commitment to promoting peace, even after leaving office. His famous quote, “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian,” which he stated before the 2015 general elections, remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history and is often cited as a testament to his political maturity and statesmanship.
Jonathan’s influence has extended beyond Nigeria, as he has played key roles in mediating political disputes in countries like The Gambia, Mali, and South Sudan. His efforts in preventing electoral violence and ensuring smooth transitions of power have solidified his reputation as a peace advocate. The Sunhak Peace Prize Committee acknowledged these contributions in their decision to honor him, emphasizing his role in strengthening democratic institutions and fostering peaceful coexistence in Africa.
Following Atiku Abubakar’s congratulatory message, several Nigerians on social media joined in celebrating Jonathan’s recognition. Supporters and political analysts described the award as a moment of pride for Nigeria and Africa as a whole. Some social media users highlighted that Jonathan’s leadership style, which prioritizes dialogue over confrontation, has set a positive example for African leaders. Others pointed out that his ability to accept defeat in the 2015 elections without contesting the results contributed significantly to Nigeria’s democratic growth.
While many Nigerians view the award as a well-earned honor, some political observers believe it also serves as a reminder of the need for current and future leaders to uphold the principles of democracy, transparency, and peace. There are ongoing debates about how Jonathan’s leadership legacy compares to those of other African leaders, with some arguing that his post-presidency achievements have further elevated his status as a global statesman.
The Sunhak Peace Prize, which was established in 2015, has previously been awarded to prominent global figures recognized for their dedication to peace and sustainable development. Past recipients include individuals who have worked in areas such as climate change, refugee support, and humanitarian efforts. Jonathan’s inclusion in this distinguished group marks another milestone in his journey as a respected leader on the international stage.
