Technology evolves and regularly disrupts the way professionals practice their trade in this fast moving digital age. In order not to be left behind in aligning with the trends of the rapidly changing nomenclature being introduced globally, the executives and members of the Photojournalists Association of Nigeria (PJAN), recently gathered experts to talk about the topical issues. It was at the annual PJAN Symposium/Award ceremony held on Friday, December 20, 2024 at the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Lagos Council Hall in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.
Two specialists in the field of Artificial Intelligence as well as Photography presented papers at the occasion. Dr. Oluseyi Akindeinde, the founder of HYPERSPACE, a Web3, blockchain, AI and software company talked on the theme, “Artificial Intelligence and Photography”. He urged photographers in all fields to come to terms the advent of AI in vivid picture creation by learning and applying the technology to enhance their profession. He however allayed the fears that the new technology could render photographers jobless in the nearest future, because the ability of the digital application is still limited.
On his part, the second lecturer, Dr. Akeredolu Olusola, a highly experienced academic in the field of general photography in his paper titled “Technological Advancement & Future Of Photography” emphasized the need for photographers to diversify in the changing digital world. He enumerated several fields through which practitioners can up their game and earn more across the global market space. The paper was presented on his behalf by Dr. Boye Ola, deputy provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos.
In her welcome address, the chairperson of PJAN, Mrs. Alaba Igbaroola declared her intention to empower members of the association with more engaging seminars for capacity building in order to improve on their professionalism and financial standing. She said, “The welfare of our members remains at the heart of my leadership. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that our community thrives, and I pledge to continue championing initiatives that promote the well-being and professional growth of all our members.”
Also speaking on the association’s plan for youths interested in taking up photography and photojournalism as careers, she continues, “we are embarking on a bold and impactful project: Youth empowerment. This initiative seeks to equip young Nigerians with the skills and tools necessary for self-reliance. We envision collaborations with the government and institutions like the NIJ. By involving politicians and other stakeholders, we aim to secure sponsorships for training programs and equipment, enabling our youth to carve paths to independence and success. Together, we can unlock the potential of the next generation and build a stronger, more self-reliant Nigeria.”
The occasion also witnessed the conferment of awards on prominent journalists, community leaders and business entrepreneurs. Among them are Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the newly elected President of the NUJ, his deputy, Mrs. Abimbola Oyetunde; as well as Dr. Adeola Ekine the chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ, Lagos State chapter. Also honoured was Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, as well as a prominent Lagos based entrepreneur, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi.
The event was attended by PJAN members, both retired and practicing photojournalists, important dignitaries such as the Royal Father of the day, Oba Latif Oladimeji Egbeyemi, Ologba of Ogba Kingdom (Madarikan1) accompanied by a retinue of his Baales and High Chiefs.
EVENT IN PICTURES
