Amb. Jeremiah Caleb Onyedikachi, speaking during the 7th Edition of the ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award Lecture, held at the British Council, Accra.
A member of the Central Planning Committee of the 7th ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award Lecture, Amb. Jeremiah Caleb Onyedikachi, has congratulated the recipients of the 2026 ZIK International Peace and Leadership Awards, describing them as exemplary leaders whose achievements continue to inspire peace, good governance, economic transformation and sustainable development across Africa.
In a statement issued following the successful conclusion of the 7th Edition of the ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award Lecture, held at the British Council, Accra, Ghana, Amb. Caleb said the award recipients have distinguished themselves through exceptional service to humanity and have become symbols of visionary leadership on the African continent.
He congratulated the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule; Executive Governor of Zamfara State, His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON; renowned Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Ibrahim Mahama; and the internationally acclaimed Ghanaian artist, Professor El Anatsui, on receiving one of Africa’s most prestigious leadership honours.
The Central Planning Committee member also paid glowing tribute to the Special Guest of Honour, Distinguished Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, commending his unwavering commitment to public service, national development and democratic leadership.
According to Amb. Caleb, the recognition bestowed on the awardees reflects the enduring ideals of the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, whose legacy continues to inspire generations of African leaders to pursue excellence, unity and transformational leadership.
Speaking on the theme of regional integration, he stressed that Ghana and Nigeria occupy strategic positions in shaping Africa’s future and must continue to provide purposeful leadership for the continent.
“Ghana and Nigeria are strategic to the peace and progress of Africa, and if these duo gets it wrong, it will rub off on the entire region. Our two countries possess enormous political, economic and diplomatic influence, and together they remain the gateway to Africa’s peace, unity, regional integration and sustainable development.”
He noted that stronger cooperation between both countries would significantly enhance peacebuilding efforts, regional security, intra-African trade, youth empowerment, economic growth and the realization of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the objectives of ECOWAS.
Amb. Caleb further called on political leaders, governments, development partners, the private sector and civil society organizations across Africa to embrace greater collaboration in addressing the continent’s shared challenges while building a future anchored on peace, innovation and inclusive development.
He also expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian High Commissioner-Designate to the Republic of Ghana, Ambassador Shehu Ilu Barde, for his diplomatic support and commitment towards strengthening the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Ghana.
The statement equally commended the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Dr. Abbas Umar Masanawa, OON, for providing visionary leadership and excellent coordination that culminated in the successful hosting of the international event.
Amb. Caleb also applauded the Director-General of the ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award Lecture, Hon. Chineme Onyeke, whose dedication and strategic leadership, he said, have continued to elevate the profile of the programme as one of Africa’s foremost platforms for celebrating excellence in leadership.
He further extended appreciation to the Board of Trustees, members of the Central Planning Committee, organizing committee members, partners, sponsors, volunteers and delegates whose collective commitment ensured the outstanding success of the 7th Edition of the ZIK International Peace and Leadership Award Lecture.
He described the event as more than an awards ceremony, noting that it has become a continental platform for intellectual engagement, policy dialogue, leadership development and the promotion of peace and regional cooperation across Africa.
Amb. Caleb urged African leaders to draw inspiration from the timeless vision of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe by placing unity, integrity, visionary leadership and the collective interest of the continent above narrow national considerations.
He expressed confidence that a stronger Ghana–Nigeria partnership would serve as a catalyst for a more peaceful, prosperous and globally competitive Africa.
