Nigerian human rights lawyer Kola Alapinni has earned global recognition after being named a finalist in the Social Action category of the 2026 Study UK Alumni Awards organised by the British Council.
Alapinni, who is the Director of Advocacy at the Foundation for Religious Freedom, was earlier announced as Nigeria’s National Winner in the Social Action category before progressing to the global stage.
He holds an LLM in International Human Rights Law from the University of Essex, where he received specialised training that strengthened his advocacy for freedom of religion or belief.
According to the British Council, the Study UK Alumni Awards recognise international graduates of UK higher education institutions who have made significant contributions to their communities, professions and countries.
Alapinni has built a reputation for handling high-profile religious freedom and human rights cases in Nigeria. His advocacy has included defending individuals facing blasphemy-related charges and challenging convictions that raised concerns over due process and fundamental rights.
One of the notable cases associated with his work is that of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, a Nigerian singer who was sentenced to death over lyrics deemed blasphemous. Alapinni challenged the case and took the matter to the Supreme Court in 2025.
He also played a role in overturning the conviction of a 13-year-old boy who had been sentenced without legal representation.
The University of Essex said Alapinni’s advocacy work has helped save people from death or imprisonment while contributing to broader efforts to protect religious freedom and vulnerable communities.
His recognition at the 2026 Study UK Alumni Awards places him among a select group of UK-educated professionals being recognised internationally for their social impact.
The British Council’s official 2026 finalists list describes Alapinni as an international human rights lawyer known for defending religious freedom and overturning wrongful blasphemy convictions in Nigeria.
ALSO READ:What the British Envoy Said After Nigeria Emerged Africa’s Top Team at Commonwealth Games
Hope you find the Above publication useful, Calabargist will love to keep you updated via our newsletter by subscribing with your email.
