Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan Wins Prestigious 2025 Sunhak Peace Prize
Former Nigerian President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has been named the recipient of the 2025 Founders Sunhak Peace Award, recognizing his enduring contributions to peacebuilding and democratic stability in Africa. The award, presented by the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation, will be formally conferred in Seoul on April 11, 2025, making Jonathan the first African leader to receive this distinguished honor.
A Legacy of Peace and Democracy
The Sunhak Peace Prize Committee highlighted Jonathan’s consistent mediation efforts and pro-democracy initiatives across Africa, particularly through his leadership of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), and the International Summit Council for Peace (ISCP). His role in facilitating peaceful transitions and conflict resolution in several African nations earned him this recognition.
“Dr. Jonathan has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to peace, not just in Nigeria but across the continent,” the Committee stated. “His leadership exemplifies the values of reconciliation, human rights, and democratic governance.”
Joining Global Peace Icons
Jonathan becomes the third recipient of the Founders Sunhak Peace Award, following former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The award is one of two categories under the Sunhak Peace Prize, which also honors individuals and organizations advancing sustainable development, conflict resolution, and ecological conservation.
Past laureates of the Sunhak Peace Prize include:
- Macky Sall, former Senegalese President
- Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB)
- Dame Sarah Gilbert, co-developer of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine
- GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance
Jonathan will receive his award alongside three other distinguished honorees:
- Patrick Awuah Jr. (Ghana), Founder of Ashesi University
- Hugh Evans (Australia), CEO of Global Citizen
- Wanjira Mathai (Kenya), Africa Director at the World Resources Institute
A Vision for Global Harmony
Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, founder of the Sunhak Peace Prize, praised the laureates for their transformative impact on peace and human development.
“The lives of these honorees prove that peace is achievable through action, leadership, and cultural change,” she said. “Their work aligns with our core mission: advancing human rights, resolving conflicts, and protecting our planet.”
Why This Matters
The Sunhak Peace Prize, established in 2015, is awarded biennially to global changemakers. Jonathan’s recognition underscores Africa’s growing influence in peace and governance, while reinforcing the importance of diplomatic leadership in a turbulent world.
As Nigeria and Africa celebrate this milestone, Jonathan’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation of leaders committed to unity, democracy, and sustainable development.
