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, recognisng his outstanding 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 exceptional contributions to public service and his advocacy for peaceful coexistence both within Nigeria and beyond.
Speaking at the event, the International Spokesperson of IAWPA, Ambassador Emmanuel Nkweke, highlighted the significance and responsibility of the new 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 said.
He further announced that as the newly installed Lord Mayor of Peace, Prof. Nnam automatically becomes a member of the United Nations’ Forum of Mayors, a platform where mayors and city leaders from around the world deliberate on sustainable urban development and peace initiatives.
Amb. Nkweke also disclosed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has granted IAWPA the status of international election observer, beginning with the upcoming Anambra State governorship election—a recognition he described as a milestone in promoting democratic values and peaceful electoral processes in Nigeria.
Delivering his address, the President of the Association, Ambassador Per Stafsen, charged Prof. Nnam to use his new position to advance the ideals of the United Nations, particularly in promoting peace, justice, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).