Nigeria’s Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has been named the recipient of the 2025 International Peace Award by the Global Peace Movement International (GPMI).

The award is coming amid an ongoing rift with Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti.

The award recognised his rising stature as a champion of peace, diplomacy, and visionary leadership.

In a statement signed by GPMI President Dr. Mike Uyi, the organisation praised Akpabio’s significant role in restoring Nigeria’s membership in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) after a 50-year absence.

This, they said, marked a major diplomatic milestone and signalled Nigeria’s renewed commitment to global cooperation.

“Senator Akpabio has redefined Nigeria’s international profile. By reclaiming Nigeria’s seat at the IPU, he has not only revived our diplomatic relevance but also inspired a new generation of parliamentary leaders across Africa," Dr. Uyi said.

Award ceremony scheduled for August 2025

The International Peace Award is one of GPMI’s most prestigious global honours, given to individuals whose actions have meaningfully advanced peace, unity, and global understanding.

The formal presentation of the award to Akpabio is planned for August 2025. The organisation highlighted that Akpabio’s leadership “reflects a rare blend of courage, diplomacy, and commitment to peace,” adding, “His enduring impact will be felt for years to come, both in Nigeria and beyond.”

Commitment to unity and peace at home

Beyond his international influence, GPMI also commended Akpabio for his dedication to fostering unity and dialogue within Nigeria.

The group expressed hope that his example would inspire “a new wave of responsible and peace-driven leadership across the continent.”

Senator Akpabio’s recognition thus not only celebrates his diplomatic successes but also underscores his ongoing role as a unifying figure for Nigeria and Africa at large.