Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari, has joined the long list of eminent Nigerian who have extolled the virtues of the senior culture journalist, actor and creative industry activist, Jahman Oladejo Anikulapo.
The former Arts Editor and Editor of The Guardian on Sunday clocked 60 on Monday January 16, 2023.
In a press statement signed by Mr. Femi Adesina, the Special Adiver to the President on Media and Publicity, Buhari shared the joy of celebrations with the renowned culture and arts advocate, who, according to him, “turned 60, brimming with youthful energy and readiness to keep shaping the music and film industry with new ideas”.
The statement reads in part: “President Buhari lauds the culture activist for his sustained advocacy and celebration of the traditional, iconic, and unique identity of Nigeria and Africa in writing, film, drama and discussions, intentionally documenting history, promoting culture tourism and inspiring generations.
“The President affirms that Anikulapo’s tutelage under some of the best dramatic and literary critics in the world, with many living and teaching in Nigeria, shows in his dedication to creativity, especially in the narrative styles.
“As the journalist, director, actor, and critic uses his creative talent to keep the spotlight on arts and culture as integral aspects of development, President Buhari believes his zeal and knowledge will continue to be relevant in a dynamic world, where values and virtues will shape the future of leadership.
“The President congratulates family members, friends and colleagues of Anikulapo on the joyous occasion of turning 60.
“President Buhari prays for the well-being of the former Guardian newspaper Editor, who leads institutions like Culture Advocates Caucus and the Committee for Relevant Arts (CORA)”.
Anikulapo was celebrated by friends on Monday at the Freedom Park in Lagos with a hybrid forum on ” the artsman as an interventionist” and a dinner where several artistes and troupes performed in his honour.