Founder of the Abuja International Photo Festival (AIPF), Osaze Efe, has said photography remains one of the most powerful tools for connecting people and promoting shared understanding across cultures and borders.
Efe stated this ahead of the 9th edition of the Abuja International Photo Festival, themed “A World Connected,” scheduled to hold from October 29 to 31, 2025, at the Exhibition Pavilion by the Abuja International Conference Centre.
He said the theme reflects the festival’s belief that visual storytelling can bridge divides and foster empathy in a world increasingly defined by digital connection and social fragmentation.
“Photography can link people and ideas beyond borders. In this digital age, it remains a tool of truth, empathy, and hope,” Efe said.
Now in its ninth year, the Abuja International Photo Festival has grown into one of Africa’s most influential platforms for visual culture and creative development. The festival has mentored over 500 photographers, many of whom now earn a living in Nigeria’s creative industry, valued at over ₦250 billion.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), UNESCO, Einao Solutions, the Embassy of Sweden, and the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy are among partners supporting this year’s event.
Representative of the UNODC, Cheikh Toure, said the agency’s involvement reflects its commitment to engaging young people through creativity in the fight against drugs, crime, and social instability.
“Nigeria’s youth are our greatest asset. Through photography, very difficult stories can be told to promote peace and stability.
“The creative sector contributes over $16 billion to Nigeria’s economy, and we must harness that potential to empower young people,” Toure said.
Similarly, Samuel Ekpe, representative of Einao Solutions Ltd, said the festival provides a platform for African youths to showcase their creativity to the world.
“This is a window for African youth to show their talent and innovation. Their creativity deserves global recognition,” he said.
More than 1,500 photographers from 22 countries are expected at this year’s event. The three-day festival will feature photography exhibitions, workshops, and panel discussions on themes such as women in photography, ethics of photojournalism, and the role of imagery in combating misinformation.
Leading speakers include Aisha Augie, Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC); Henry “Big H” Oji; Belinda Holden of the Yinka Shonibare Foundation; and Ed Kashi, a National Geographic visual storyteller.
