The International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) on Thursday bestowed one of its highest honors on Victor Chukwuemeka Nnam, officially installing him as Lord Mayor of Peace 2025 in recognition of his unwavering commitment to peacebuilding, sustainable development, and global cooperation.
Prof. Nnam, a former Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development in Enugu State, was celebrated for his contributions to public service and advocacy for peaceful coexistence in Nigeria and beyond.
Speaking at the investiture ceremony, IAWPA’s International Spokesperson, Ambassador Emmanuel Nkweke, highlighted the weight of responsibility that accompanies the global peace title.
“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 told the new Lord Mayor.
Ambassador Nkweke also announced that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had accredited IAWPA as an international election observer, starting with the upcoming Anambra State governorship election—a development he described as a major boost to democratic consolidation and peaceful electoral processes in Nigeria.
Delivering his keynote address, the President of the Association, Ambassador Per Stafsen, urged Prof. Nnam to leverage his new position to advance the mission and vision of the United Nations, especially 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,” Stafsen said. “We count on you to champion the ideals of the UN wherever you go.”
In the same vein, the International Director of the Association, Prof. Chidi Ehiriodo, commended Prof. Nnam’s record of leadership and development, emphasizing IAWPA’s global presence across the United States, United Kingdom, Spain, Japan, Italy, Denmark, Germany, and other countries.
“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 declared.
“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 IAWPA records, Prof. Nnam becomes only the 13th individual worldwide to receive the Lord Mayor of Peace honor, joining a distinguished circle of global peace ambassadors.
Several dignitaries, including Ambassador Mba Didacus Chijioke, Chief Innocent Nnaji, and Dr. John Nnam, took turns to extol Prof. Nnam’s humility, leadership, and dedication to social justice.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Nnam expressed deep gratitude to IAWPA, pledging to live up to the ideals of his new office.
“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 highlight of the event was the installation of Mrs. Nnam as an Eminent Ambassador of Peace, in recognition of her support for humanitarian and community-building efforts. Other honorees included Ambassador Chioma Nnamani, Ambassador Chinyeze Ngworo, and Ambassador Dr. Francis Okorie, among others.
