A Voice for Peace: UN Appoints Nigerian Poet Maryam Bukar Hassan as First Global Advocate for Peace

The United Nations has named 28-year-old Nigerian poet and spoken word artist Maryam Bukar Hassan, popularly known as Alhanislam, as its first Global Advocate for Peace a historic appointment marking the first time an artist has been selected to represent the entire UN Peace and Security Pillar.

Hailing from Biu in Borno State, Nigeria, Bukar is globally recognized for harnessing the power of poetry to champion gender equality, youth empowerment, and inclusive peacebuilding. Through stirring performances and storytelling, she has become a powerful voice in international forums, with appearances at the UN SDG Awards, TED Talks, and the World Bank Youth Summit.

Bukar’s new role will involve using creative expression to advance the UN’s Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agendas. Her work has already left an indelible mark, from co-creating the “Peace Begins With Me” poetry video for the International Day of Peace, to delivering a resonant performance at the 2024 Summit of the Future.

Her appointment has drawn praise from high-level UN officials. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, stated:

“The dedication of the Global Advocate’s time and energy to this effort will greatly increase awareness of the peace and security priorities of the United Nations, particularly the vital role of women and youth in advancing inclusive and sustainable peace.”

Echoing that sentiment, Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, emphasized the transformative impact of Bukar’s craft:

“Art has the power to move hearts, inspire action, and bring communities together. Through her compelling words and performances, Ms Bukar has shown how creativity can be a force for peacebuilding, dialogue and inclusion. Her voice will be an important partner in amplifying the UN’s efforts to advance political solutions, empower young people and women, and sustain peace.”

In this new capacity, Bukar will engage audiences globally through digital storytelling, public performances, and participation in major UN campaigns. Her next appearance is slated for New York City’s Summer Stage festival on Sunday, July 27, 2025, where she will perform alongside Afrobeat legend Femi Kuti, Cape Verdean singer Elida Almeida, and other internationally acclaimed artists.

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, also a Nigerian, celebrated Bukar’s appointment in a heartfelt post on X: “Your voice carries truth and endless inspiration. As you once said: ‘Peace has always known a woman’s name spoken in the way she chooses courage over collapse, again and again.’ Proud to see a Nigerian woman lighting the path of peace.”

Back home, Bukar’s recognition has been celebrated as a milestone for Nigeria and a beacon for African youth. Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, said:

“The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development celebrates Bukar as she carries this global mantle. Her recognition is a proud moment for Nigeria and a beacon of pride for young women everywhere. As she advocates the cause of women through #WomenPeaceSecurity and #YouthPeaceSecurity agendas, her voice will continue to inspire hope not only for Nigeria, but for the world.”

Bukar’s commitment to using art for social transformation has already earned her numerous accolades, including the Sustainable Africa Award at COP28 and a finalist placement at the 2024 UN SDG Creativity Award.

Her appointment not only affirms the growing role of culture in diplomacy but also cements the reality that African voices especially those of women and youth are critical to building a more peaceful, equitable world.

The Voice of Africa celebrates Alhanislam for reminding the world that peace is not just policy it is poetry in motion.

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