Peace Achievers Awards marks 15 years of advancing peace across Africa

The 15th edition of the Peace Achievers International Awards has reaffirmed the central role of peace in driving development, justice, and social inclusion, as prominent speakers and humanitarians gathered to celebrate individuals and organisations championing peacebuilding efforts across Africa.

The event, held over the weekend in Abuja, brought together public officials, diplomats, civil society leaders, and young changemakers under the theme “Peace, Development and New Sectorial Partnerships.”

In his opening address, Kingsley Amafibe, organiser of the Peace Achievers International Awards and Project Director of Peace Ambassador Agency, celebrated the milestone of 15 years of promoting peace, leadership, and humanitarian initiatives across the continent.

“This year marks 15 years of consistency, 15 years of promoting peace not only in Nigeria but across Africa; 15 years of building young leaders, of humanitarian service, and of commitment to community development,” Amafibe said.

He emphasised that peace is a shared responsibility, not an abstract ideal, and that true peace is reflected in everyday acts of compassion and empowerment.

“Peace is reaching out to a young boy with talent in the streets and changing his story. Peace is giving scholarships to children who cannot afford an education,” he said.

Over the years, the organisation has supported more than 1,000 children through scholarship programmes and empowered numerous widows through community-based initiatives.

Amafibe urged corporate organisations and individuals to partner with the agency in sustaining these programmes and expanding their reach.

“We cannot do this alone. There are many children and widows depending on the little we can offer. Peace is priceless, we do it not for profit but out of passion,” he noted.

He expressed gratitude to his team, family, and supporters for their unwavering commitment to the peace mission, adding that the organisation’s work represents the future Nigeria should aspire to.

“If we don’t build a legacy today, we will lose tomorrow. Peace is what we do. Peace is what we live for. And peace is what will sustain Nigeria’s future”, he said.

Other speakers commended the organisers for sustaining a platform that has become a “national conscience” and a reminder that peace is not a luxury, but a necessity for national progress.

The Peace Achievers International Awards has, since its inception, honoured over 500 individuals and institutions that have contributed to peacebuilding, humanitarianism, and community development across Africa.