The British High Commissioner to Cameroon, Matt Woods, has paid a visit to the Sir Dr Barrister Ntumfor Nico Halle Award Gallery in Bonaberi, Douala, commending the veteran peace crusader for his enduring commitment to peacebuilding and good governance.
Hosted by Ntumfor Nico Halle on Sunday, 26 April 2026, the visit took place at his Bonaberi office, which houses an impressive collection of over 205 awards earned in recognition of his work across Cameroon and beyond. Welcoming the British diplomat, Ntumfor described the moment as deeply significant.
“The presence of such a high-profile diplomat, His Excellency Matt Woods, is truly heartwarming for me,” he said. “He represents Great Britain here in Cameroon, and Great Britain is not just any country—it is a great nation.”
During the exchange, Ntumfor used the occasion to reiterate his long-standing call for global peace, urging international institutions and world leaders to take greater responsibility in resolving conflicts.
“We must challenge our leaders to work for peace,” he stated. “I find myself asking whether the Security Council of the African Union is functioning as it should. Is the Security Council of the European Union working effectively? Is the United Nations Security Council fulfilling its role?”
He continued: “These institutions have a responsibility to monitor conflicts around the world and to bring about lasting solutions. I am therefore appealing to them—I am praying that God grants them the wisdom and strength needed to restore peace across the globe.”
Ntumfor emphasised that his advocacy transcends national boundaries. “My concern is not limited to peace in Cameroon alone. I have received recognition from across the world for my work in peacebuilding, good governance and election management. Given this moment, and the blessing of hosting such a high-profile diplomat, it is important to speak about peace on a global scale,” he added.
Highlighting his experience, Ntumfor revealed that he has participated in election observation missions in three African countries, stressing his uncompromising stance on electoral integrity. “I don’t have kind words for those who rig elections. Each time I am given a task to supervise an election, I ensure it is transparent,” he said, noting that his work once earned him the nickname “Mr Transparent” following his role in overseeing elections in Bafoussam.
He further underscored the importance of the rule of law and described peace as humanity’s greatest asset. “Peace is the greatest asset anyone can have,” he affirmed, calling on global powers to use their influence to promote stability rather than conflict.
For his part, Matt Woods expressed admiration for Ntumfor’s lifelong dedication to peace, noting that he had heard of his achievements prior to the visit.
“It is very impressive—especially coming after the past eight days I’ve spent travelling across the Northwest and Southwest regions, and just following the recent Pope’s visit as well,” he said.
“To be here and to listen to Barrister Nico Halle speak about his efforts over many years—indeed, decades—and his message of peace, and the importance of choosing peace over violence, is very powerful,” he added. “It has been truly wonderful to see the many awards he has received in recognition of his longstanding work in promoting peace.”
Reflecting on the exchange, the High Commissioner noted the mutual learning experience. “As for a message to him, I’m not sure I am the one who should be giving messages. I think it is rather his message to me. But I believe we can both agree that peace is the way forward, not violence.”
The visit, marked by reflection and dialogue, underscored the shared commitment of both men to advancing peace and strengthening global cooperation at a time of growing international uncertainty.
