SEOUL, South Korea – Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has been named the winner of the prestigious 2025 Sunhak Peace Founders’ Prize, recognising his continuous efforts in mediation and pro-democracy activities across Africa.
The Sunhak Peace Prize committee, in a statement on Monday, March 24, 2025, lauded Jonathan for his instrumental role in peacebuilding and democratic development on the continent.
Jonathan’s leadership and advocacy were highlighted through the associations he chairs, including the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), and the International Summit Council for Peace (ISCP), all of which have contributed significantly to his efforts in promoting peace and democracy.
The former president will receive the award on Friday, March 27, 2025, in Seoul, South Korea, during a ceremony hosted by the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation.
Jonathan’s recognition as the recipient of the Founders’ Prize makes him the third individual, and the first African leader, to win this category of the prestigious award.
Previous recipients include Ban Ki-Moon, former United Nations Secretary-General, and Hun Sen, the Prime Minister of Cambodia.
Established to continue the legacy of Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church, the Sunhak Peace Prize is awarded biennially to individuals and organisations making significant contributions to peace and human development.
The award is divided into two categories: the Founders’ Sunhak Peace Award and the Sunhak Peace Prize.
Past winners of the latter category include Senegal’s former president Macky Sall, Akinwumi Adesina, president of the African Development Bank, Sarah Catherine Gilbert, co-developer of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine, and GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance.
In response to Jonathan’s win, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu issued a statement on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, congratulating his predecessor on the landmark achievement.
“Dr. Jonathan’s winning the Sunhak Peace Award affirms his bold efforts in peace-building and promoting democracy in Africa and beyond,” Tinubu said.
He also highlighted Jonathan’s historic acceptance of the results of the 2015 presidential election and his peaceful transfer of power to an opposition party, a move that strengthened Nigeria’s democratic credentials.
Tinubu also expressed gratitude to the Sunhak Peace Prize committee for recognising the work of individuals dedicated to improving the world.
Jonathan’s recognition is a testament to his enduring commitment to fostering peace and democracy, both in Nigeria and across Africa.
