President Goodluck Jonathan has disclosed that he will become a peace ambassador after handing over the mantle of leadership to Muhammadu Buhari on May 29.
The president explained that he strongly believes Nigerians can only practise their different religions in a peaceful environment.

Jonathan disclosed this shortly after he was decorated with the 2015 Epitome of Peace Award by the Field Superintendent of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Federal Capital Territory Field, Apostle John Buzu, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Friday.

Jonathan, who has been receiving eulogies from the international community for conceding defeat to Buhari, said he would work hard to reduce religious and racial discrimination in the country after leaving office.

Hear him, “To whom much is given, much is expected. For you to honour me today, you have given me another mandate to work harder to ensure that we as Nigerians continue to live in peace.

“One thing I have decided I will do after leaving office is to be talking to faithful of all religions: Christians, Muslims and other religions, on the need for Nigerians to live in peace.

“This is because when there is crisis in any part of the country, nobody can practise his own religion. If there is crisis anywhere, people cannot go to the mosque, they cannot go to the church.

“We need peace in this country, no matter our religious persuasion or belief. That will be one of my main commitments when I leave office: to reduce discrimination in this country based on religious divides or ethnicity. I believe I will have so many apostles that will follow me to do that.”

He added that a few of them, including himself, are a bit luckier because their contributions are noticed.

“I sincerely thank you for considering me fit for this honour that you have just bestowed on me.

“All of us do a number of things everyday. People have saved this country, we don’t even know some of them or what they did but some people are a bit luckier that their actions are noticed and sometimes rewarded.

“You have also noticed me with my little contribution, not just because I am the President of the country, but because of an action I took that you believe saved lives and you are honouring me,” he added.

“I am grateful for the insignia given to me: the plaque, the medal and the dress are quite unique. They will be very conspicuous in my Presidential museum or library so that even after 50 years, people will still see and appreciate what you have done today even if I have left this world and have gone beyond, what you have done will still be displayed in my library for people to see,” he added