‘We Need to Invest in Tourism to Improve Photography in Nigeria’

Ugo Aliogo

As part of efforts to improve the photography profession in Nigeria, the Chief Executive Officer, Awefirm Resources Limited (ARL), Bolaji Alonge, has called for increased investment in tourism in order to harness the potentials of the profession.

Addressing journalists at a media briefing recently in Lagos, Alonge said in promoting photography the focus should shift from travelling to Europe and America because there are wonderful locations in Nigeria which can provide the opportunity for the photographer to develop to improve their competence.

He called on parents to encourage their children to go into photography, while lamenting that there is need for re-orientation of youths against the syndrome of get rich quick because it takes a while to achieve success in photography.

In bid to support the growth of the profession, Alonge will be organising a photo exhibition tagged; ‘Eyes of A Lagos Boy’ the exhibition is aimed at getting youths deeply involved in photography, generate interest in adventure, and travel beyond their homes.

The exhibition which will hold at the Museum, Freedom Park, Old Prison Ground Broad Street, Lagos Island from May 20-27, from 11 a.m to 7:30 p.m. daily.
“The images to be displayed are everyday happenings and little things people sometimes don’t pay attention to. Photos on the exhibitions are open to buyers at reasonable rates. People can visit the website of ARL www.awefirm.org.

“By the time I started getting comments that tourism will be good for me, I decided to travel a bit. When I decided to create my website, I had those pictures. After creating the website I decided that it is better this information is taken to the public. This is what informed organising the Lagos Boy.

“The idea behind the initiative is the Eyes of a Lagos Boy has criss-crossed 17 countries around the world seeing different experiences. Therefore, I want to use this exhibition to share my experiences around the world to the Lagos community and also share the Lagos experience to the world.”