Nigerian lawyer and human rights advocate, Kola Alapinni, has been selected as a global finalist in the Social Action category of the 2026 British Council Study UK Alumni Awards.

Alapinni is among 28 finalists chosen worldwide across the four award categories, which recognise graduates of UK universities who have made notable contributions to their professions, communities and countries.

The University of Essex graduate emerged as Nigeria’s winner in the Social Action category before advancing to the global stage of the awards.

According to a statement published on the university’s official website on Friday, Alapinni’s recognition reflects his work in human rights advocacy and his efforts to challenge discriminatory laws and promote freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria.

He obtained a Master of Laws degree in International Human Rights Law from the University of Essex and has built his legal career around human rights cases.

Among the cases associated with his advocacy is that of singer, Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, who was sentenced to death after being convicted of blasphemy. Alapinni challenged the conviction and secured an appeal in the case.

He also played a role in overturning the conviction of a 13-year-old boy who had been sentenced without legal representation.

The British Council Study UK Alumni Awards celebrate outstanding graduates of UK higher education institutions whose achievements have had a positive impact on their careers, communities and countries.

Alapinni’s selection places him among the finalists competing for international recognition in the Social Action category at the 2026 awards.