The Nigeria Nature Photography Awards (NNPA), a new platform aimed at promoting biodiversity awareness through photography, has been unveiled by stakeholders in the conservation and environmental sector.
The unveiling was announced in a statement signed by Mr Festus Iyorah, Nigeria Representative of Wild Africa, and made available to newsmen on Friday in Lagos.
According to the statement, the awards were founded by Oluwasooto Ajayi to celebrate Nigeria’s wildlife, landscapes and natural heritage, while recognising photographers whose work promotes appreciation of the natural environment.
Ajayi said the initiative would use photography to increase public understanding of Nigeria’s biodiversity and encourage greater appreciation of 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 statement said the inaugural edition invites photographers across the country, from emerging talents to professionals, to submit images depicting wildlife, landscapes and human-nature interactions.
It added that the awards seek to foster public awareness of biodiversity, encourage pride in Nigeria’s natural heritage and promote conservation through visual storytelling.
According to the statement, winners will receive cash prizes, while selected entries will be showcased at a public exhibition later in the year.
The organisers said the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with organisations involved in conservation, storytelling and public engagement.
The statement identified Ninthgrid, an Afrocentric stock image platform, as a supporting partner contributing expertise in African visual storytelling and digital content development.
Mr Francis Odeyemi, the Chief Executive Officer of Ninthgrid, said the organisation was pleased to support a project that promotes African visual storytelling and highlights Nigeria’s natural environment.
“This initiative aligns strongly with our mission to elevate authentic African imagery and create opportunities for photographers across the continent,” he said.
The statement also said the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) would serve as a conservation partner, providing technical guidance to strengthen biodiversity awareness efforts.
Mr Kunle Olawoyin, Director of Communications, Policy and Advocacy at NCF, described the initiative as timely and important.
Iyorah said the awards would help inspire greater public appreciation of nature and encourage collective action to protect Nigeria’s natural heritage.
He added that Wild Africa, as media partner, would support efforts to amplify stories that promote wildlife conservation and the protection of natural habitats across the continent.
According to him, the initiative aligns with Wild Africa’s mission of promoting the protection of wildlife and wild spaces across Africa.
The statement urged interested photographers to visit the competition website for information on eligibility requirements, submission guidelines and deadlines.
