Former President Goodluck Jonathan has pledged to remain committed to promoting peace and serving humanity in Nigeria and across the globe.

He made the vow on Sunday in Abuja at a reception organized in his honor by “Friends of Dr Goodluck Jonathan,” following his receipt of the 2025 Sunhak Global Peace Prize in Seoul, South Korea.

“It has always been my desire to impact lives and promote peace in my space,” Jonathan stated. “I will continue to do my little best until the last day I will live on earth. I believe that’s the only way I can serve God—by serving man.”

Reflecting on his upbringing in poverty, Jonathan said it instilled in him a deep empathy for those in hardship, driving his lifelong dedication to peace and justice. He also recounted his reluctance to enter national politics, preferring to focus on development in Bayelsa State, before ultimately rising to the presidency.

The event drew several dignitaries, including Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, who chaired the occasion and praised Jonathan for strengthening democracy and fostering peace across Africa.

Other notable attendees included Dame Patience Jonathan; King Amalate Turner of Oloibiri Kingdom; Olori Opeoluwa Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, who led the toast; and Ambassador Hassan Tukur, who hailed Jonathan’s diplomatic efforts in Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, and Guinea-Bissau.

The Chief Host, Azibaola Robert, said the gathering was a celebration of Jonathan’s global recognition and his enduring contributions to peace.

The Sunhak Peace Prize, established in 2015, honors those promoting global peace, development, and ecological sustainability. Jonathan becomes the first African leader and third recipient of the prestigious award, following former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.