- A 22-year-old Nigerian-American, Zuriel Oduwole has been shortlisted for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize
- From mediating territorial disputes at 13 to consulting world leaders on peace strategies, Oduwole has influenced international policies and championed education as a tool for development and stability
- The recognition will be announced in October 2025 and the award will be given out on December 10, 2025
Zuriel Oduwole, an inspiring 22-year-old Nigerian-American advocate for peace, education, and gender equality, has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
The Nobel Peace Prize is one of the world’s most prestigious accolades, which recognises individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to peace and human rights annually. It was established by Alfred Nobel.
A press release on Sunday, February 23, 2025, highlighted Oduwole’s extensive diplomatic engagements, which have shaped global discussions on education and peace, created opportunities for marginalised communities, and driven meaningful change.
Oduwole was born in Los Angeles to Nigerian grandparents and a Nigerian-American father. She has held discussions with numerous world leaders, including presidents and prime ministers, addressing key policy and development issues.
Her work is centred on broadening educational access for marginalised communities and fostering systemic transformation.
At just 13, Oduwole played a pivotal role in mediating a territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, meeting then-President David Granger at the United Nations to advocate for peaceful dialogue.
“In 2020, she consulted with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on global peace strategies during the Arab blockade of Qatar, which concluded peacefully in 2021,” the statement read.
Impressively, she has engaged with over 35 world leaders, including presidents and prime ministers, to discuss policy and development issues.
According to the Nobel Prize annoucement, Oduwole’s nomination acknowledged her efforts and “reflects Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.”
Education has remained a cornerstone of her advocacy, which she considers fundamental to both development and stability.
“Oduwole’s commitment to education began at nine when she observed young girls in Accra selling goods instead of attending school. This experience inspired her to use documentary filmmaking to raise awareness about educational barriers,” it added.
Upon learning of her Nobel Peace Prize nomination, Oduwole, who is also a filmmaker, called for greater investment in young girls, stating, “I have never sought recognition, only to speak up where it’s needed. This honour reflects the urgent need to invest in young voices as agents of change.”
As the founder of ‘Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up (DUSUSU),’ in 2013, she continues to empower young people, particularly girls, to advocate for their rights and future opportunities.
Through storytelling and diplomacy, Oduwole has driven change, shaped policies, and contributed to a more inclusive and equitable world.
“Regardless of the outcome, Oduwole’s nomination underscores the growing impact of youth advocacy in global policy and sustainable peace efforts,” the statement added.
The recognition will be announced in October 2025 by the Norwegian Nobel Committee in Oslo, Norway, and awarded on December 10, 2025.
Celebrating the Girl child: 6 Nigerian females making name for themselves globally
Meanwhile, TheRadar previously spotlighted Nigerian females making waves globally in different sectors such as sports, education, activism and technology.
They include Zuriel Oduwole, a filmmaker and Activist; Marylove Edwards, Tennis prodigy; Faith Odunsi, Maths genius; Emmanuella Samuel, Child Comedienne; Jare Ijalana, Child model; and Esther Okade, Maths genius.
