Burkina Faso’s resident, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has been honoured with the prestigious title of Grand Commander of Peace (GCOP) by the African Continental Chapter of the United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC AFRICA).The honour was conferred during the 14th Edition of the Pan African Leadership Symposium and Honours (PALESH Nigeria 2025), at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.
The UNIPGC Supreme Council ratified the award under the leadership of Global President H.E. Amb. Dr. Jonathan Ojadah endorsed it, and the event’s steering committee, chaired by former Vice President of Liberia H.E. Chief Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor, approved it.
The council recognised President Traoré for his outstanding commitment to peace, leadership excellence, and sustainable development under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
The symposium convened top African leaders, diplomats, traditional rulers, and parliamentarians who engaged in critical discussions on adaptive leadership and the prospects and challenges surrounding stability across the African continent.
President Traoré was ably represented by one of his senior advisers, Dr. Samuel Kalkoumdo, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the President and accepted the award. He was accompanied by senior diplomats from Burkina Faso’s Embassy, Consulate, and High Commission in Abuja and Lagos.
During the award presentation, Amb. Jonathan Ojadah lauded President Traoré’s transformative agenda and visionary leadership. He remarked:
“This award recognises your exceptional performance in nation-building and the transformational development of Burkina Faso. Since assuming office, you have launched bold initiatives to improve healthcare, agricultural productivity, and economic growth. Your leadership has put Burkina Faso on the path of what we call the ‘African Revolution.’”
Amb Ojadah said, “At just 36, your tenure has already left an indelible mark. From mobile health clinics reaching remote communities to the revitalisation of local industries and reform in the gold mining sector, your drive for a self-reliant Burkina Faso stands out amidst regional instability and global scepticism.
