The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have reiterated their dedication to leveraging creative storytelling and photography to foster cultural preservation and peace worldwide. This commitment was highlighted during the opening ceremony of the 9th Abuja International Photo Festival.
During his address, Jean-Paul Abiaga, UNESCO”s representative in Nigeria, emphasized the organization”s ongoing support for young creators, particularly in Nigeria, where a significant portion of the population is under 30 years old. He pointed out the essential role of creative storytelling in countering misinformation and enhancing information integrity. “It is always a pleasure for UNESCO to be part of this kind of event,” Abiaga remarked, expressing hope that in the future, participants would see UNESCO not just as a partner but as part of their community.
Abiaga took the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of photographers and artists who enrich global culture, urging the audience to applaud their efforts. He stated, “Photography, which began nearly two centuries ago, has become a powerful medium of storytelling, as impactful as words, music, and dance.” He further noted that in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, photography has influenced self-perception from colonial times to the present, celebrating identity, resilience, and historical narratives.
Highlighting the ongoing “photo revolution” fueled by smartphones and digital cameras, Abiaga remarked on how these tools have transformed personal devices into platforms for global sharing. “These new tools connect us in ways we never imagined, linking us not only to each other but also to our past and future,” he added, underlining photography”s crucial role in promoting global peace.
However, he also warned of the risks associated with misinformation in the digital landscape, referencing a UNESCO survey that found a significant percentage of digital content creators do not verify the accuracy of the information they disseminate. “A photo speaks powerfully, but it can also divide us if not used responsibly,” he cautioned, highlighting the vital role that photographers and photojournalists play in advancing peace, unity, and understanding.
Abiaga reaffirmed UNESCO”s commitment to empowering Nigeria”s youth, especially those pursuing careers in the creative sector, by providing them with the necessary tools to contribute to peacebuilding and sustainable development.
In his remarks, Cheikh Toure, the UNODC representative, recognized the impactful work displayed at the festival, stressing how art sheds light on the complex social issues that the UNODC tackles globally. “We are here today because the work being presented aligns with the core values we hold dear — fostering resilience, peace, and positive societal change,” Toure stated. He further emphasized the need for collaboration between UNODC and the creative sector, asserting, “If our work is to be credible and effective, it must involve your voices, your talents, and your creativity.”
The festival also introduced the Creative Alliance for Peace, an initiative aimed at uniting creatives to explore how art and culture can facilitate conflict resolution and peacebuilding. “We are proud to support these creative initiatives, even if they may seem distant from our core work,” Toure remarked, adding that together, meaningful change can be achieved that benefits both Nigeria and the global community.
Additionally, Ayomide Adeagbo, the Special Assistant to the President on Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, announced that the Federal Government is in the process of developing new copyright policies to safeguard creative professionals and enhance the industry. “The government is working on intellectual property policies for creatives in Nigeria, which is essential. We want our creatives and photographers to have ownership and full control over their work,” Adeagbo stated, indicating that these policies would soon be implemented nationwide.
The festival convener, Efe Osaze, expressed that the annual event seeks to celebrate the art of photography and its unifying power. This year”s theme, “A World Connected,” emphasizes photography”s ability to bridge cultural, ideological, and geographical divides. “In a world increasingly divided by distance and differences, photography stands as one of the few ways to bring us all together,” Osaze concluded.
