In a ceremony aimed at strengthening grassroots peacebuilding efforts, the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) inaugurated a new set of Nigerians as International Peace Ambassadors in Abuja in the early hours of March 28, 2026.
The event, held at the National Merit House in Maitama, gathered humanitarian actors, civic leaders and peace advocates from across the country.
IAWPA, which holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), said the honour was reserved for individuals with verifiable records of peacebuilding and humanitarian impact.
Among those inaugurated was Ambassador Solomon Andiir, a Benue-born entrepreneur, sports administrator and philanthropist. Also conferred with the title was Comrade Ambassador Jethro Terhile Anum, popularly known as the NYC President, alongside other notable personalities.
As part of their new roles, the ambassadors received symbolic privileges, including diplomatic passports and official vehicle plate numbers, highlighting what organisers described as their responsibilities as global advocates for peace.
Andiir, President of Flight Sports Limited Nigeria and Managing Director of Flight Transport Limited Gboko, was recognised for his grassroots interventions focused on youth engagement and conflict resolution in Benue State.
Through his organisations and his position as a board member of the Aidwell Foundation, he has promoted unity initiatives such as football tournaments in Sankera aimed at fostering communal harmony, preseason awareness tours in conflict-prone communities through Flight FC Gboko, and youth sensitisation programmes designed to encourage long-term peaceful coexistence.
Speaking after the inauguration, Andiir described the recognition as both an honour and a call to greater service, reaffirming his commitment to advancing peace beyond Benue State to the wider Nigerian society.
The ceremony also featured prominent personalities, including Her Excellency Hajia Titi Abubakar, wife of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who attended as Guest Speaker, alongside Brigadier General JT Aun and other distinguished guests.
Held under the theme, “The Role of Peace Ambassadors in Nation Building,” the event highlighted the importance of collaborative action in promoting unity, stability and sustainable development.
By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
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