Lagos, Nigeria – Stakeholders in Nigeria’s conservation and environmental sector have unveiled the Nigeria Nature Photography Awards (NNPA), a new initiative designed to promote biodiversity awareness through visual storytelling.
The unveiling was announced in a statement signed by Festus Iyorah, Nigeria Representative of Wild Africa, and made available to journalists on Friday in Lagos.
According to the statement, the awards were founded by Oluwasooto Ajayi to celebrate Nigeria’s rich wildlife, diverse landscapes and natural heritage, while recognising photographers whose work fosters appreciation for the environment.
Ajayi said the initiative aims to use photography as a tool to deepen public understanding of Nigeria’s biodiversity and inspire greater engagement with nature.
“Nigeria is incredibly rich in biodiversity, yet much of it is not widely seen or understood. This initiative is about changing that by using photography to deepen appreciation for our natural environment while celebrating the photographers who help tell that story,” he said.
The organisers noted that the inaugural edition of the awards invites submissions from photographers across the country, ranging from emerging talents to professionals. Entries are expected to capture themes such as wildlife, landscapes and human interaction with nature.
The statement added that the awards seek to raise public awareness, instil pride in Nigeria’s natural heritage and promote conservation through compelling visual narratives.
Winners will receive cash prizes, while selected works will be featured in a public exhibition scheduled for later in the year.
The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with organisations involved in conservation, storytelling and public engagement. Ninthgrid, an Afrocentric stock image platform, is supporting the project by providing expertise in African visual storytelling and digital content development.
Francis Odeyemi, Chief Executive Officer of Ninthgrid, expressed support for the initiative, noting its alignment with the organisation’s mission to promote authentic African imagery and create opportunities for photographers across the continent.
The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) will serve as a conservation partner, offering technical guidance to strengthen biodiversity awareness efforts.
Kunle Olawoyin, Director of Communications, Policy and Advocacy at NCF, described the initiative as both timely and significant in advancing conservation goals.
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Iyorah added that the awards would help inspire greater public appreciation of nature and encourage collective responsibility in protecting Nigeria’s natural heritage. He noted that Wild Africa, as media partner, would amplify stories that promote wildlife conservation and the protection of natural habitats across the continent.
The organisers urged interested participants to visit the competition website for details on eligibility, submission guidelines and deadlines.
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