Nigerian photographers decry neglect of northern women in photojournalism

By solacebase.com On Aug 19, 2024

Nigerian photographers decry neglect of northern women in photojournalism — L-R Program Coordinator Documentary Photography Culture Exchange and Expression, Sani Maikatanga, Senior Photojournalist Leadership Newspaper, Gbenga Abiola, One of the Participants Becky A. Likita Jos received her certificate, Program Facilitator, Sodiq Adelakun Representative Ideas and Data Academy Katsina, Dr, Musa Abdullahi Sufi, and Guess Speaker of the Program at the Closing Ceremony of a 3 days Training on Photojournalism and Documentary Photography toward achieving sustainable development goals (SDG’s) in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), organized by smmimges and media Ltd held in Kaduna on Weekend.

Some photographers in Kaduna State, have decried the non-involvement of northern women in the art of photography, especially photojournalism.

Speaking to participants during a three-day workshop held with support from Ideas and Global Academy (IDGA), the founder of SMM images and Media company, Sani Muhammad Maikatanga said poor participation of northern women in the practice is a barrier to the success of photojournalism development.

“At SMM Images, the zeal to break the barriers in Northern Nigeria for women in photography to actively have a place, led us to kickstart this training for female photographers and journalists across the region.

“Moreover, with years of experience, we have never come across any extensive training for female photographers on photojournalism and documentary photography in northern Nigeria, knowing fully thay other parts of the country have many women practicing these aspects and they are succeeding,” he said.

In his presentations, Afolabi Sotumbe said photojournalism is a sustainable tool for media development. He added that documentary photography will enhance effective visual storytelling, documentary history, empathy and connection, investigate journalism and cultural representation in the region.

“Photojournalists should always adhere to the ethics behind pictures that speak for impactful resolution,” said Afolabi.

Meanwhile, Sadiq Adelakun in his presentation emphasises on understanding Photojournalism and digital Media in the age of artificial intelligence which indicates fact checking images that can be generated using AI.

“In the modern day, some photojournalists have developed a lazy approach by generating stories that seem not to be true. These factors make the profession battles with citizens, journalists and bloggers. Subsequently, photojournalists have to acquire dedication, creativity, objectivity, narrative power, ethical responsibility and timeline frame.”

Kaduna