Goodluck Jonathan, Former President of Nigeria has received the African Democracy and Peace Icon Award in Rwanda.
The ex-president alongside other prominent African leaders were honoured at the maiden edition of the African Heritage Concert and Awards held in Kigali, Rwanda on Saturday, April 1.
In attendance also was The Nigerian High Commissioner to Rwanda, Ambassador Suleiman San.
Press Release says event is to honour Africans
A press release on Monday by the organisers, Heritage Times, said the event was held to celebrate and honour African greats who have distinguished themselves in their various fields of endeavor, and have made sustainable global impact in pacifying the image of Africa.
According to the press release signed by Chairman, Heritage Times, Mr Moses Siasia, ex-President Jonathan appealed to African leaders, who are privileged to hold public offices to become servants of the people, and not turn themselves into the “bosses of the people.”
Goodluck Jonathan speaks at Rwanda
Jonathan said, “When you are called the executive president, our duty is to run our country properly, not to dehumanise human beings and make their lives difficult. What you should think is when you leave office, what will the world remember for? Will the world remember you for killing people? Will the world remember you for jailing people, or will the world remember you for destroying their systems?
“What people will remember you for is what should guide our decisions, and I believe if every leader should begin to think that when you leave office, one day you will be remembered one way or the other, positively or negatively.”
Meanwhile, the Chairman, Heritage Times, Mr Siasia, noted that the choice of Rwanda as the venue for the event was strategic, given the country’s front role is setting the pace for growth and sustainable development in Africa.
While retrospecting on the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, he advocated for unity and peace across Africa, adding that Africa has a prestigious place in the world stage.
He added that Africa lacks inspirational leaders, but expressed hope that the awards and special recognition is one of the surest ways in which mentors would be created.
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