By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
In a significant ceremony held in the early hours of March 28, 2026, the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) officially inaugurated a select group of distinguished Nigerians as International Peace Ambassadors in Abuja.
The event, which took place at the National Merit House in Maitama, brought together dignitaries, humanitarian leaders, and advocates of sustainable peace from across the country. The organization, recognized for its Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), honoured individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to peacebuilding and humanitarian service.
Among the honourees was Ambassador Solomon Andiir, a Benue-born entrepreneur, sports administrator, and philanthropist. Also inaugurated was Comrade Ambassador Jethro Terhile Anum, widely known as the NYC President, alongside other notable personalities.
As part of their new roles, the ambassadors were conferred with symbolic privileges, including diplomatic passports and official vehicle plate numbers, underscoring their responsibilities as global advocates for peace.
Andiir, who serves as President of Flight Sports Limited Nigeria and Managing Director of Flight Transport Limited Gboko, was particularly commended for his impactful grassroots initiatives.
Through his organizations and his role as a board member of the Aidwell Foundation, he has consistently championed conflict resolution and youth engagement across Benue State.
His peace-driven interventions include organizing football tournaments in Sankera to foster unity, sponsoring preseason tours to promote awareness in conflict-prone communities through Flight FC Gboko, and supporting youth sensitization programmes aimed at building long-term harmony.
Speaking after the inauguration, Andiir described the recognition as both an honour and a call to greater service, reaffirming his commitment to advancing peace not only in Benue State but across Nigeria.
The ceremony also featured prominent figures, including Her Excellency Hajia Titi Abubakar, wife of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who attended as Guest Speaker, alongside Brigadier General JT Aun and other distinguished guests.
Held under the theme, “The Role of Peace Ambassadors in Nation Building,” the event underscored the critical importance of collaborative efforts in fostering unity, stability, and sustainable development.
With this inauguration, Solomon Andiir joins a global network of peace advocates, reinforcing his position as a dedicated ambassador for peace and a key contributor to nation-building efforts in Nigeria and beyond.