By; AYO OJEDOKUN, Lagos
The Photojournalists Association of Nigeria (PJAN), Lagos State Chapter held its 2022 annual symposium and conferment of awards to journalists in the state recently.
The event which took place at the Radio Lagos/Eko Hall, Ikeja, witnessed dignitaries from all walks of life.
The traditional ruler of Orangun, Oba (Dr.) Adedokun Abolarin who doubled as the Royal Father of the day and Chairman of the occasion respectively, was accompanied by his Olori, some of the students from his School and other notable personalities.
According to the association’s chairman, Mr. Kola Olasupo, the awardees were selected in appreciation for their continuous support for PJAN and to the growth of Photojournalism in Nigeria.
The award recipients included the former two-term Chairman of Lagos NUJ, Mrs. Funke Fadugba, the immediate past Chairman of Lagos NUJ, Dr. Qasim Akinreti, the immediate past Secretary, Comrade Alfred Odifa, Mr. Gbenga Fatile of FRCN, Mr Raphael Awoniyi and Mr. Bon Barber.
In his speech, the association’s chairman said the 2022 symposium/award was symbolic and timely in view of the forthcoming general elections, stressing that Photojournalists have a major role to play before, during and after the election.
“Photojournalism by definition,is journalism that uses images to tell a news story.
“In periods of rapid change,the press performs a significant role as a social educator”. We,through different stylish format: such as photo-story, photo-series or photo-essay, play a key role in the preservation process of honest news dissemination,thereby deepening democracy in Nigeria.
“I would like to appreciate you all for being here to participate in this very important gathering at a critical juncture of our Nation’s history. We can all agree that personal Liberty is the most sacred possession of every man in a functioning democracy and we can be proud as members of the free press process.
“At the end of today’s event,my sincere wish is that we’re reminded of the limitless power of the lens of our cameras and the ability of our photographs, to shape the important story of the moment, which is the coming election,” he emphasised.
Other highlights of the ceremony was the inauguration of Mr. Dayo Adedayo and Hon. Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa as Patron and Patroness of the association.
