In a prestigious ceremony held on Thursday, the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) officially installed Professor Victor Chukwuemeka Nnam as the Lord Mayor of Peace for 2025, recognizing his commitment to peacebuilding, sustainable development and international cooperation.
Prof. Nnam, a former Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development in Enugu State, was honored by the global peace organization for his contributions to public service and his advocacy for peaceful coexistence, both within Nigeria and across borders.
Speaking at the event, the International Spokesperson of the association, Ambassador Emmanuel Nkweke, emphasized the responsibilities that come with the title.
He announced that as the newly installed Lord Mayor of Peace, Prof. Nnam will become an automatic member of the United Nations’ Forum of Mayors, an influential platform where mayors and city leaders discuss sustainable urban development and peace initiatives.
“Their meeting holds once every year and you will lead the Nigerian delegation to any international meeting. In addition to that, you will sit at the high table as a mark of honour”, he said.
Ambassador Nkweke also disclosed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has granted IAWPA the status of international election observer, starting with the upcoming Anambra State governorship election.
He described this recognition as a major step in promoting democratic values and peaceful electoral processes in Nigeria.
Delivering his address, the President of the Association, Amb. Per Stafsen, urged Prof. Nnam to use his new position to advance the mission and vision of the United Nations, particularly in promoting peace, justice and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“As a Lord Mayor of Peace, you are now a symbol of hope in a world grappling with division, violence and inequality,” Amb. Stafsen said.
“We count on you to champion the ideals of the UN wherever you go.”
In support of the president’s remarks, the International Director of the association, Prof. Chidi Ehiriodo, praised Prof. Nnam’s track record in leadership and development.
He reiterated that IAWPA is a global organization with presence in the United States, United Kingdom, Spain, Japan, Italy, Denmark, Germany and other nations, with a mission to promote peace without political or ethnic bias.
“Our goal is to foster global peace and advance the SDGs. We are peace activists, we are non-partisan and uncompromising in our pursuit of harmony,” Prof. Ehiriodo stated.
“Nigeria is in turmoil, the nation is bleeding. It is time to raise our voices for peace, unity and healing. We must not be deterred.”
According to official records from the organization, Prof. Nnam is the 13th individual worldwide to receive the Mayor of Peace honor, joining an elite group of global peace ambassadors.
Several dignitaries spoke in honor of the awardee, including Amb. Mba Didacus Chijioke, Chief Innocent Nnaji and Dr. John Nnam, who commended Prof. Nnam’s humility, leadership and commitment to social justice.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Nnam expressed deep gratitude to the International Association of World Peace Advocates, pledging to uphold the values of peace, justice and development.
“This honor is not just for me, but for all peace-loving Nigerians. I will continue to advocate for peace, not only within our borders, but around the world,” he said.
A major highlight of the event was the installation of Prof. Nnam’s wife, Mrs. Nnam, as an Eminent Ambassador of Peace.
Other notable individuals who received similar honors included Amb. Chioma Nnamani, Amb. Chinyeze Ngworo, Amb. Dr. Francis Okorie among others.
