Zuriel Oduwole, an advocate for peace, education, and gender equality, has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025.
According to a Sunday press release, Oduwole has actively participated in worldwide diplomatic efforts, influencing talks about education and peace, creating opportunity for disadvantaged populations, and encouraging genuine change.
Born in Los Angeles to Nigerian grandparents, Oduwole has met with a number of foreign leaders, including presidents and prime ministers, to address policy and development concerns.
Her activities are aimed at expanding education access for underprivileged populations and encouraging structural change.
“At 13, Oduwole mediated a territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, meeting with then-President David Granger at the United Nations to emphasise the importance of 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 stated.
It noted that Oduwole’s nomination recognise her efforts and “reflects Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.”
Read Also: Over 5,000 Nigerians at risk of deportation over Trump’s immigration policy
“Her advocacy for education, which she views as fundamental to both development and stability, has been central to her mission from an early age.
“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, sought more investments in young girls, saying, “I have never sought recognition, only to speak up where it’s needed. This honor reflects the urgent need to invest in young voices as agents of change.”
As the founder of ‘Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand,’ she is empowering young people, particularly girls, to advocate their rights and future opportunities.
Through storytelling and diplomacy, Oduwole has inspired change, influencing policies and creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee is expected to announce the 2025 laureate later this year.
“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 Nobel Peace Prize, one of the world’s most esteemed honours, acknowledges individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to peace and human rights.
