By Abbas Nazil
The International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA), a United Nations Peace Volunteers body, has conferred Prof. Alfred Oniye, President of the Merchant Seafarers Association of USA Inc. and Nigeria, with the prestigious Chartered Fellowship Award for Eminent Peace Ambassador.
The award was officially presented during the 2025 Investiture Ceremony of International Peace Advocates held on April 24, 2025, in Lagos.
The honour, signed and sealed by the World Peace President of IAWPA, Ambassador Per Stafsen, followed Oniye’s nomination and subsequent approval by the global body headquartered in Denmark.
The ceremony saw the attendance of key figures in the maritime and peace advocacy sectors, including Prof. Wakawa Hyelladzira Musa, Prof. Okeke Anayo Paul, Dr. Omonbude Mike, and the Chief Nominee Superintendent and IAWPA Director, Dr. Jerry Abiye.
Dr. Abiye, who presented the award, said the conferment was in recognition of Prof. Oniye’s remarkable efforts in promoting peacebuilding, human capital development, and advancing the maritime sector.
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According to Abiye, Oniye’s reputation for excellence, humanitarian service, and educational leadership made him an ideal candidate for the accolade, earning him a place among the elite “Category A” nominees—those recognized without the need for a rigorous vetting process.
Highlighting the significance of the award, Abiye noted that Prof. Oniye is now officially empowered to carry out peace advocacy missions around the globe under the framework of the United Nations’ 1984 Declaration on the Right of Peoples to Peace.
As an Eminent Peace Ambassador, Oniye will also have the privilege of participating in UN programmes and global peace conferences.
Furthermore, he is expected to lead delegations of the Association to strategic engagements with international organisations such as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Describing Oniye as a “man of many paths,” Abiye praised his dedication and impact across multiple sectors.
“His influence in maritime education, leadership, and service to humanity is immeasurable. He has touched countless lives and remains a beacon of excellence,” he remarked.
The ceremony symbolised not just recognition, but a call to greater service as Prof. Oniye joins a global network of peace advocates striving to foster development, diplomacy, and humanitarian values.
