Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to promoting peace and serving humanity, both in Nigeria and around the world.
He made this pledge on Sunday in Abuja during a reception organised by “Friends of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan” to celebrate his recent recognition with the 2025 Sunhak Global Peace Prize, awarded in Seoul, South Korea.
Speaking at the event, Jonathan said it had always been his passion to touch lives and foster peace in every space he occupies.
“I won’t say much, but I want to thank you and reassure you that my commitment to peace will continue. I will keep doing my bit until my last day on earth. I believe serving humanity is the best way to serve God,” he said.
Reflecting on his upbringing, the former president noted that his humble background instilled in him deep empathy for those who suffer and a strong desire to see others uplifted.
“I came from a modest background and understand what it means to struggle. That’s why it pains me to see people suffer or nations in crisis,” Jonathan shared.
He recalled his initial reluctance to accept the role of Vice President, explaining that he wanted to focus on making a difference in his home state of Bayelsa.
“I thought Bayelsa was a small state where I could make meaningful impact. But destiny brought me here,” he said.
Jonathan expressed gratitude to the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation for honouring him, saying he never expected such global recognition.
The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who chaired the occasion, described Jonathan as a symbol of hope and peace in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“President Jonathan’s sacrifices for this country, especially in ensuring peaceful transitions, are things Nigerians will never forget,” Obi said.
Chief Host, Azibaola Robert, noted that Jonathan’s friends felt it necessary to honour him for bringing such international acclaim to Nigeria.
Also speaking, Ambassador Hassan Tukur, former Principal Private Secretary to Jonathan, said the award was well-deserved, citing Jonathan’s peace-building roles in Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Guinea-Bissau, and other conflict zones during and after his presidency.
Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, hailed Jonathan as a patriot and visionary leader whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan; King Amalate Turner, the paramount ruler of Oloibiri Kingdom in Bayelsa State; and Olori Opeoluwa Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, who led the toast. Also in attendance were former aides, governors, and ministers who served under Jonathan’s administration.
The award recognises Jonathan’s steadfast efforts in conflict resolution, democratic advocacy, and peacebuilding across the African continent.
Founded in 2015, the Sunhak Peace Prize is awarded biennially to individuals and organisations that demonstrate outstanding contributions to peace, sustainable development, and ecological conservation.
