Lasisi Olagunju, Jahman Anikulapo among newly elected honorary fellows of Nigerian Academy of Letters

July 12, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Nigerian Academy of Letters has announced the election of new fellows and honorary fellows in recognition of outstanding contributions to humanities in Nigeria and beyond.

Among those elected as honorary fellows are Dr. Lasisi Olagunju, a celebrated columnist and media professional, and Jahman Oladejo Anikulapo, a veteran journalist and arts advocate.

Thirteen professors were also elected as fellows of the academy, including Professor Umaru Alhaji Pate, Vice Chancellor of Federal University, Kashere, who was recognized for his works in journalism education and university leadership. Other elected fellows include the following;

  • Classical Studies, Philosophy, and Religions:
    Professor Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole, Professor Temisanren Ebijuwa.

-Historical Studies: Professor Emeritus Alkasum Abba, Professor Akinwumi Ogundiran (Overseas Fellow)

-Literary Studies: Professor Gbemisola Aderemi Adeoti, Professor Aderemi Raji-Oyelade, Professor Victor Chiagozie Ariole

  • Cultural Studies, Creative Writing, Theatre, Visual and Performing Arts: Professor Mohammed Inuwa Umar-Buratai, Professor Ameh Dennis Akoh, Professor Charles Emeka Nwadigwe
  • Communication and Media Studies: Professor Umaru Alhaji Pate
  • Linguistics: Professor Gideon Sunday Omachonu, Professor Obiajulu Augustine Emejulu.

The Awards of Excellence in Humanistic Practice were also approved for three distinguished individuals who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to humanistic values in practice: Mr. Laolu Ogunniyi, Alhaji Teju Wasee Kareem, Mr. Musa Alao Adedayo.

The investiture ceremony for the new fellows and recipients of the awards will take place during the Academy’s 27th Convocation, scheduled for August 14, 2025, at the University of Lagos.