Initiative To Showcase Nigeria’s Biodiversity, Natural Heritage Through Photography

Nigeria Nature Photography Awards (NNPA) has introduced a platform aimed at celebrating and documenting Nigeria’s biodiversity, wildlife, and natural landscapes through photography.

Founded by Oluwasooto Ajayi, the initiative seeks to deepen public appreciation of Nigeria’s natural heritage while spotlighting photographers whose work captures the country’s ecosystems and human–nature interactions.

“Nigeria is incredibly rich in biodiversity, yet much of it is not widely seen or understood,” Ajayi said. “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.”

The organisers said the inaugural edition is open to photographers across the country, from emerging talents to professionals, encouraging submissions that highlight wildlife, landscapes, and conservation-focused storytelling.

According to the organisers, selected works will be recognised with cash prizes, while outstanding entries will also be featured in a curated public exhibition scheduled for later in the year.

The project is being delivered in collaboration with conservation and media partners, including Ninthgrid, an Afrocentric stock image platform supporting visual storytelling and digital content development.

“We are excited to collaborate on a project that amplifies African visual storytelling while highlighting the beauty and importance of Nigeria’s natural environment,” said Francis Odeyemi, CEO of Ninthgrid.

“This initiative aligns strongly with our mission to elevate authentic African imagery and create opportunities for photographers across the continent.”

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) is serving as conservation partner, providing technical guidance to ensure the initiative contributes meaningfully to biodiversity awareness and environmental protection efforts.

“This is a timely and important initiative,” said Kunle Olawoyin, Director of Communications, Policy & Advocacy at NCF. “By showcasing Nigeria’s wildlife and ecosystems through photography, the Awards can inspire greater public appreciation for nature and encourage collective action to protect our natural heritage.”

Also supporting the initiative is Wild Africa, which will serve as media partner, helping amplify conservation-focused storytelling across the continent.

“Wild Africa has been working to promote the protection of wildlife and wild spaces across Africa,” said Festus Iyorah, Nigeria Representative for Wild Africa. “This initiative brings that mission to life in a powerful way by engaging photographers and the public in celebrating Nigeria’s natural heritage.”

Photographers interested in participating can find eligibility details, submission guidelines, and deadlines via the official portal.