Nigerian music superstars David “Davido” Adeleke, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, and ace comedian AY Makun have been listed among the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’.

The stars were named in the ‘Peacebuilding row call’ at the unveiling news conference by the organisers on Friday in Abuja.

Other Nigerians who made the list include former President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President Prof Yemi Osibanjo; Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammadu Sa’ad Abubakar and President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adeshina.

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Cardinal John Oniyekan, Bishop Matthew Hassan-Kukah and renowned tele-evangelist Chris Oyakhilome also made the list, among others.

Kinsley Amafibe, project director of Africa for the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, congratulated the artistes and other Nigerians who made the highly coveted ‘peace list’.

According to him, the peace icons are Africans drawn from different backgrounds who have used their talents, positions and resources to build and promote peace across the continent.

He said those who made the list were painstakingly selected for their consistent commitment to humanitarian initiatives, positive influence on communities and youth empowerment, among other criteria.

“Within this illustrious roster of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, we encounter a rich shade of leaders, economists, financial experts, sports personalities, religious leaders, industrialists, entertainment entrepreneurs and traditional rulers.

“They have transcended boundaries and overcome challenges to leave unerasable legacies, with each narrative as a tribute to perseverance and determination, enclosed in the cherished values of Africa- unity, harmony, and progress,” he said.

Other recipients of the recognition across the continent include Rwanda President Paul Kagame, Kenyan President William Ruto Cyril Ramaphosa, South African President and Joyce Hilda- Band, First Female President in Malawi.

Ex- Cameroonian football star Samuel Eto’oFils, veteran Ghanaian actor John Dumelo, American-born Senegalese singer Akon, and the first lady of Namibia, Monica Geingos, are also listed among the peace icons.

(NAN)