Jonathan Vows Unwavering Devotion to Peace upon Receiving Sunhak International Peace Award

Former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan, has once again affirmed his dedication to fostering peace and serving humanity following the receipt of the esteemed 2025 Sunhak Global Peace Prize in Seoul, South Korea.

This recognition came in light of his tireless efforts to promote peace on a global scale. At a gathering organized by "Friends of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan," in Abuja, Jonathan vowed to carry on working towards peace and making a difference worldwide.

"I'll keep giving it my best shot till my last breath on this earth. I believe that's the only way I can serve God by serving man," stated Jonathan, expressing his gratitude for the award.

Recalling his humble beginnings in a modest background, Jonathan expressed that witnessing people's suffering and the struggles of his nation always weighed heavily on his heart.

"I've always wanted to ensure no Nigerian suffers, though it isn't easy for any president to achieve that," he said.

Jonathan also shared his initial reluctance to pursue a higher political career. Reminiscing about his reluctance to accept the vice-presidential nomination, he expressed a desire to serve his small state of Bayelsa.

The Sunhak Global Peace Prize organizers lauded him for his extraordinary contributions, with Jonathan admitting that he had not anticipated receiving such an honor.

"I didn't see it coming, but I'm grateful for this acknowledgment," Jonathan said. He extended a heartfelt thanks to those in attendance, noting their encouraging words.

Peter Obi Celebrates Jonathan's Pioneering Peace Efforts

The event's chairman, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, applauded Jonathan's contributions to peace. Obi described Jonathan as a selfless individual who had made countless sacrifices for peace in Nigeria, Africa, and on a global scale.

Obi emphasized that Jonathan had given hope to Nigeria's democracy and had made significant sacrifices for the country's peaceful transition. He went on to acknowledge Easter Day as an ideal time to appreciate Jonathan for his sacrifices for peace.

Chief Host of the reception, Azibaola Robert, an entrepreneur and Managing Director of Kakatar Group, commended Jonathan as an individual with a strong passion for peace and a true leader for Nigeria and the world. Robert lauded Jonathan's humble leadership and unwavering moral character, stating that his life has been a source of inspiration to many.

Former Principal Private Secretary to Jonathan, Ambassador Hassan Tukur, hailed the award, describing it as rightfully deserved. Tukur recalled Jonathan's key role in resolving conflicts in multiple African nations, including Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, and Kenya. In the post-election crisis in Côte d'Ivoire, Jonathan's diplomatic initiatives proved instrumental in restoring peace. Tukur also highlighted Jonathan's personal intervention during the Mali crisis, where he mediated directly with opposing parties, saving numerous lives.

Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, praised Jonathan, referring to him as a patriot and transformer whose leadership will long be cherished. Maku underscored Jonathan's famous statement during his 2015 presidency: "the presidency is not worth the blood of any citizen," emblematic of his commitment to peace over power.

Jonathan's extensive efforts in conflict resolution across Africa have garnered international recognition, culminating in his award of the Sunhak Peace Prize in Seoul, South Korea on April 11, 2025. This prestigious prize illustrated his consistent mediation efforts and pro-democracy activities in Africa, including his peacebuilding roles in the African Union and the United Nations.

The Sunhak Peace Prize, instituted in 2015, recognizes individuals and organizations that make extraordinary contributions to global peace, human development, conflict resolution, and ecological conservation. Jonathan joins the ranks of prestigious winners, including former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Jonathan closed his remarks by reaffirming his commitment to continue advocating for peace and reconciliation, urging more leaders to rise to the occasion and serve humanity with heartfelt dedication to peace.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan affirmed his dedication to fostering peace and serving humanity after receiving the 2025 Sunhak Global Peace Prize in Seoul, South Korea.
At an Abuja gathering organized by "Friends of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan," Jonathan vowed to continue working towards peace and making a difference worldwide.
During the event, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, applauded Jonathan's contributions to peace in Nigeria, Africa, and globally.
Ambassador Hassan Tukur hailed the Sunhak Peace Prize awarded to Jonathan, describing it as rightfully deserved, and highlighting Jonathan's key role in resolving conflicts in multiple African nations, including Côte d'Ivoire and Mali.
The Sunhak Peace Prize recognized Jonathan's extraordinary contributions to global peace, human development, conflict resolution, and ecological conservation, joining him with other prestigious winners like former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
Jonathan, remembering his humble beginnings, expressed his desire to ensure no Nigerian suffers, reaffirming his commitment to continue advocating for peace and reconciliation and urging more leaders to serve humanity with heartfelt dedication to peace.