Nigeria has long been a cradle of talent, influence, and resilience. But in 2025, two extraordinary Nigerian women are taking that legacy to a new level. Grammy-winning Afrobeats sensation Tems and globally respected economist and WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala have been named among the 2025 ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa’, solidifying their positions as not just national treasures, but continental champions for peace and progress.
The announcement was made during the official ‘Unveiling News Conference’ held in Abuja. The organisers celebrated influential Africans who have leveraged their platforms to promote peace, unity, development, and youth empowerment across the continent.
Tems: A Voice for a Generation
Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has not only captivated global audiences with her soulful voice and genre-bending Afrobeats sound but has also emerged as a symbol of female empowerment and resilience. With two Grammy wins and eight nominations under her belt, Tems is rewriting what it means to be a Nigerian artist on the world stage.
Beyond the accolades, her recognition as a peace icon represents a deeper narrative of how music, culture, and art can inspire global unity. Whether she’s performing with international stars like Drake or Beyoncé or proudly showcasing her roots on Instagram with her Grammy awards, Tems is constantly reminding the world that Nigeria is a hub of creativity, pride, and purpose.
Tems’ inclusion in the peace icons list is not just about her fame; it’s about how she’s using her influence to reshape global perceptions of Africa, especially Nigerian youth. She stands as a beacon for millions, proof that dreams rooted in Lagos can echo around the globe.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: The Diplomatic Powerhouse
On the other end of the spectrum is Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the indomitable economist who continues to break ceilings. As the first African and first woman to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has become synonymous with global economic reform, diplomacy, and development.
Her presence on the 2025 peace icon list reaffirms her legacy as an economic strategist, humanitarian, and peace advocate. Known for her firm stance on economic justice, vaccine equity, and inclusive trade policies, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has shown that policy, like music, can be a force for peace.
She reminds us that Nigeria doesn’t just export oil or entertainment; it exports visionary leadership. She continues to open doors for young African economists through her work, proving that African minds can shape global institutions.
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A Continental Stage for Peace
Other honorees on the list include Egyptian football legend Mohamed Salah, Tanzanian CEO Dr. Angel Josephat Natianota, Moroccan media strategist Dr. Abdelhak Najib, and Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister Prof. Mthuli Ncube.
Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, the project director for 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa, selected the awardees for their “commitment to humanitarian initiatives, youth empowerment, and positive influence on communities.”
Tems and Dr. Okonjo-Iweala have clearly embodied those values in artistry and policy, demonstrating that peace isn’t just a concept and an action rooted in purpose, voice, and impact.
The Kigali Recognition
The honorees will be officially celebrated at the ‘100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit’, scheduled for July 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda. The summit will gather government leaders, economic experts, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to foster new frameworks for growth, peace, and development under the theme:
‘Leadership Frameworks for Governance, Business Growth, Investment Opportunities and Sustainable Development in Africa.’
From the music stage to the trade floor, these two Nigerian women lift the green-white-green flag high, showcasing the richness of talent and the power of transformation through purpose-driven influence.
Tems and Dr. Okonjo-Iweala are more than icons; they are living proof that Nigeria continues to produce world leaders who not only make history but also shape the future.
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FAQs – Tems and Okonjo-Iweala in the 2025 Peace Icons List
Q1: Why were Tems and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala named Peace Icons?
A: Both women have used their platforms to promote positive change. Tems through her music and global influence, and Okonjo-Iweala through her diplomatic work and economic leadership at the WTO.
Q2: What is the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa initiative?
A: It is an annual recognition that honours Africans who have made significant contributions to peace, development, youth empowerment, and humanitarian efforts across the continent.
Q3: When and where will the Peace Icons be awarded?
A: The official award presentation will take place in July 2025 at the Leadership and Business Summit in Kigali, Rwanda.
Q4: Is this the first time Nigerian women are being recognised in this category?
A: No, but Tems and Okonjo-Iweala’s inclusion in 2025 adds significant prestige given their global profiles and active influence in their respective fields.
Q5: How does this recognition impact Nigeria’s image?
A: It reinforces Nigeria’s position as a country rich in talent, leadership, and cultural influence, highlighting the positive contributions of Nigerians to global peace and development.