Zuriel Oduwole is not a name that suddenly leapt out of nowhere. Through sheer hard work and pristine service, she has risen to the ranks of her career.

Oduwole, an advocate for peace, education, and gender equality, has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.

For Nigeria, beyond the pride of having a compatriot getting nominated, this latest feat has elicited pride among Nigerians, Africans and women worldwide.

The flurry of congratulations pouring in for Oduwole clearly confirms the saying that “success has many relatives” and that “failure is an orphan.”

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.

Past recipients include Nelson Mandela, former US Presidents Jimmy Carter and Barack Obama, Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai, and former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee will 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.

Oduwole didn’t begin her advocacy today. She has demonstrated the rare eloquence, determination among her peers and for standing out in the midst of others.

Oduwole’s feat shows that women, globally, are challenging the status quo by contributing immensely and working hard. They are self-confident and not afraid to push all the boundaries required to breast the tape in whatever field they choose.

Nigerian ancestry have succeeded and are still succeeding which is why it’s no surprise that many hold prominent positions on the global stage.

In 2013, Oduwole founded “Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up” (DUSUSU) to empower youths, especially girls, to advocate for education and leadership opportunities.