Nigeria's Finest: Madam. Okonjo-Iweala and Tems Make Africa's Peace Icons List

When you think of peace champions, what comes to mind? Politicians in suits shaking hands? Well, Africa just reminded us that peace comes in many forms—and Nigeria is absolutely crushing it.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and our very own Grammy queen Tems have both landed spots on the 2025 '100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa' list. Yes, you read that right—the woman running global trade and the artist giving us goosebumps with "Essence" are both being celebrated as peace champions. This is peak Nigerian excellence right here.

Think about it: NOI (as we fondly call her) has been breaking barriers at the WTO, ensuring African voices are heard in global economic conversations. Meanwhile, Tems has been carrying our culture to the world stage, showing that Nigerian creativity is a universal language that connects hearts across borders. Both women, in their different lanes, are literally reshaping how the world sees Africa.

The announcement came straight from Abuja, and the lineup is impressive. We're talking Mohamed Salah from Egypt, our own business mogul Femi Oyetola, and Zimbabwe's Finance Minister Prof. Mthuli Ncube. It's like Africa's hall of fame, but for people actually making a difference.

Ambassador Kingsley Amafibe, the Project Director, put it perfectly—these honorees have shown "unwavering commitment to humanitarian initiatives." Translation: they're not just talking the talk, they're walking the walk and lifting others as they climb.

The real celebration happens in July at the '100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit' in Kigali, Rwanda. Picture this: economic experts, government officials, entrepreneurs, and policymakers all in one room, discussing how to take Africa to the next level. That's the kind of energy we need more of.

Here's what gets me excited: Nigeria isn't just participating in Africa's growth story—we're leading it. From boardrooms in Geneva to Grammy stages in Los Angeles, Nigerians are proving that excellence knows no boundaries.

This recognition isn't just about individual achievements; it's about a country that continues to produce world-changers. Every time NOI speaks at the WTO or Tems drops a new track, they're not just representing themselves—they're carrying the hopes and dreams of over 200 million Naija people.

Proud to be Nigerian today? You should be. Follow @OneNaijaBoyNG for more stories celebrating our homegrown heroes making waves globally.