The International Centre for the Promotion of Human Rights (CIPDH), operating under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), has honoured the Programme Chairman of the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA), Jahman Anikulapo, with the 2024 UNESCO Defender of Cultural Rights Award.
The award ceremony, which is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to cultural preservation and advocacy, took place in Buenos Aires, Argentina recently, where Anikulapo was celebrated alongside other distinguished figures in culture, politics, and human rights.
The Eko Book Club, an initiative of Read Across Nigeria (RAN), issued a congratulatory statement through its founder, Wole Adedoyin, praising Anikulapo’s achievement.
“Jahman Anikulapo’s contributions to cultural advocacy have placed Nigeria’s rich heritage on the global stage. This well-deserved recognition by UNESCO is a testimony to his unwavering commitment and visionary efforts,” Adedoyin stated from Ibadan.
The recognition comes as a milestone for Nigeria’s cultural sector, highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting the nation’s artistic heritage. The Eko Book Club emphasised that Anikulapo’s achievement should serve as an inspiration to other cultural practitioners and advocates across the country.
In their statement, the Club also called for increased support from both the government and private sectors for cultural initiatives and leaders who, like Anikulapo, dedicate themselves to promoting cultural diversity and understanding. This award not only celebrates Anikulapo’s personal achievement but also brings international attention to Nigeria’s vibrant cultural landscape and its importance in the global artistic community.
Anikulapo’s signature achievement, the Lagos Book and Art Festival (LABAF), has evolved over 26 years into West Africa’s premier cultural gathering. The festival has become a model for cultural preservation in the digital age, combining traditional artistic expressions with contemporary platforms.
The UNESCO award acknowledges Anikulapo’s innovative approach to cultural archiving and advocacy. His work has been particularly noted for bridging generational gaps in cultural understanding and creating sustainable platforms for artistic expression.
Anikulapo is also the founder of Culture Caucus Advocate (CCA).
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