Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been named the recipient of the 2025 Sunhak Peace Founders’ Prize in recognition of his contributions to peace and democracy in Africa.
Announcing the award on Monday, the Sunhak Peace Prize Committee highlighted Jonathan’s role in fostering stability across the continent through his leadership in various organizations, including the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), and the International Summit Council for Peace (ISCP).
Jonathan will receive the prestigious award on Friday in Seoul, South Korea, making him the first African leader and third recipient of the Founders’ Prize, following former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
READ ALSO: Tinubu Congratulates Jonathan on Sunhak Peace Award Win
Established to continue the legacy of Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church, the Sunhak Peace Prize is awarded biennially to individuals and organizations that promote global peace and development. The prize consists of two categories: the Founders’ Sunhak Peace Award and the Sunhak Peace Prize. Notable past winners of the latter include former Senegalese President Macky Sall, African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina, and Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine co-developer Sarah Catherine Gilbert.
In response to the announcement, President Bola Tinubu congratulated Jonathan, describing the award as a testament to his dedication to democracy and peace-building. A statement from presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga acknowledged Jonathan’s historic decision to accept the 2015 presidential election results and peacefully transfer power, reinforcing Nigeria’s democratic reputation.
Tinubu also commended the Sunhak Peace Prize Committee for recognizing individuals committed to creating a more peaceful world.