A coalition of international Non-Governmental Organizations (iNGOs), including Excellence One UK and Global Forum for Peace, among others, has unveiled the nominees for the Global Peace and Humanitarian Awards for 2023.

The awards are a tribute to individuals who have selflessly dedicated their time and risked their lives to provide aid to people in humanitarian crises worldwide.

During a press conference held in Abuja, the regional representative for West Africa, Amb. Ozuem Esiri, announced the nominees as part of the commemoration of the 2023 United Nations International Humanitarian Day.

Esiri congratulated the nominees and highlighted that the awards recognize individuals and organizations that consistently promote peace and provide humanitarian services in their communities, regions, and globally.

The nominees are individuals who have made significant contributions in various areas such as peace building, human development, refugee assistance, gender equality, sustainable economic development, healthcare, and education.

Notable nominees from Nigeria, Africa, and around the world include Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau, Arc. Dr. Olumayowa Olurishe, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani, and ED Ezeh Charles Chinedu. International nominees include DG Ayda Ozeren from Turkey, Arthur Kanegis from the USA, Helen Jeanalda Peacock from Canada, David Hartsough and David Swanson from the USA, Jean Alexandre from France, George Michael from the UK, Dr. Surendra M. Mishra from India, and Dr. Jiseok Jung from South Korea.

Esiri emphasized the importance of the United Nations Peace Day and Humanitarian Day, stating that they are significant events that the organization and its partners always commemorate.

He invited others to join the United Nations in taking action for peace by fighting inequality, addressing climate change, and promoting and protecting human rights.

The Global Peace and Humanitarian Awards, organized by Excellence One UK, Global Forum for Peace Justice and Human Rights, Centre for Grassroots Development, Soccer for Peace Foundation, and other international civil society organizations, focus on recognizing peacebuilding and service to humanity.

The 5th edition of the Awards ceremony will align with World Humanitarian Day, reaffirming the commitment to the values and humanitarian principles that guide humanity and showing solidarity with the communities being served.

Mr. Emmanuel Lee, the chairman of the Award Screening Committee, condemned the call for military intervention and force by the ECOWAS bloc in Niger Republic. He highlighted that such actions could worsen the refugee crisis and increase military and political tensions in West Africa. Lee urged ECOWAS to reconsider its approach and opt for peaceful dialogue as the best option.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres stressed the urgency of peace, stating that war, conflict, poverty, and hunger are devastating communities and displacing millions of people. He also highlighted the presence of inequalities and political polarization even in peaceful countries.

The Global Peace and Humanitarian Awards 2023 will be held alongside an International Conference on ‘Peace, Security, Humanitarian Aid in African and Beyond’.

The conference will bring together participants from civil society organizations, political leaders, security experts, para-military organizations, peace activists, academia, students, stakeholders, peace and security consultants, researchers, and professionals from around the world. The conference will feature keynote lectures, talks, and presentations.

Source: NNNG