Tony Elumelu, Otedola, Okonjo-Iweala, Tems, Osimhen Named Among Africa’s 100 Most Notable Peace Icons for 2025

Top Nigerian figures including business moguls Tony Elumelu and Femi Otedola, COZA pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, WTO chief Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and football star Victor Osimhen have been listed among the 2025 edition of the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’.

Unveiled at a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, the list highlights influential Africans from various sectors who have made impactful contributions to peace, unity, and development across the continent.

Joining them are other prominent Africans such as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Tanzanian HR World CEO Angel Josephat Natianota, Grammy-winning singer Tems, and Moroccan figures Abdelhak Najib and Imane Kendili.

The list also includes Zimbabwe’s finance minister Mthuli Ncube and Rwandan business leader Munyakazi Sadate.

Kingsley Amafibe, the project director for the initiative, explained that the honorees were selected for their dedication to humanitarian work, youth empowerment, and their influential roles in driving social and economic change in Africa.

“These individuals exemplify resilience and leadership. They have used their platforms to shape communities, empower the youth, and drive sustainable peace across borders,” Amafibe said.

He emphasized that the selection reflects a diverse mix of thought leaders, public servants, creatives, and entrepreneurs whose efforts embody Africa’s values of harmony, growth, and collective progress.

Award presentations for the peace icons will take place in July at the ‘100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit’ in Kigali, Rwanda.

Themed “Leadership Frameworks for Governance, Business Growth, Investment Opportunities and Sustainable Development in Africa,” the summit will bring together policymakers, business leaders, and experts to discuss collaborative strategies for economic growth and stability on the continent.

The event will also feature panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking sessions aimed at encouraging investment, boosting intra-African trade, and strengthening governance and regional partnerships.