Adobe Ambassador and founder of Africa Shooters, Ebuka Mordi, has called on Nigerian photographers and visual storytellers to leverage their craft in addressing social issues and driving positive change in society.
Mordi made this appeal during the 2025 Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk, held on Saturday in Abuja. The event, powered by Adobe Lightroom, was organised by Africa Shooters in partnership with the World Trade Centre Abuja.
The gathering brought together photographers and creatives from across the country to capture powerful images, exchange ideas, and share diverse perspectives through visual storytelling.
According to Mordi, photography remains a powerful tool for shaping narratives, raising awareness, and inspiring action.
“Photography has the capacity to drive societal change by documenting social issues, raising awareness, inspiring empathy, encouraging dialogue, and ultimately sparking action,” he said.
He explained that through compelling imagery, photographers can highlight overlooked issues and bring them to the attention of global audiences, prompting responses that lead to meaningful change.
“Photographers play a crucial role in shifting narratives for a better society, and that begins with understanding the importance of the craft. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, photographers are often seen merely as cameramen, but in reality, we have the power to tell our own stories and shape perceptions,” he added.
Mordi noted that hosting the Photowalk in Abuja was an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s creative potential to the world.
“Africa Shooters was created to ensure that African voices and stories are represented globally. This event marks the beginning of that journey,” he said.
In addition to the Photowalk, participants engaged in an Adobe-led session, exploring new Lightroom features through hands-on activities. The programme also provided opportunities for collaboration, networking, and creative experimentation.
Mordi highlighted that the Abuja edition was strategically designed to draw the attention of international brands, investors, art enthusiasts, and communities, positioning Nigeria as a vibrant hub where culture, innovation, and global connections intersect.
He also stressed the importance of capacity building for young photographers, ensuring that they work professionally and ethically.
“I’ve had the privilege of training over a thousand students in photography, and I’m passionate about preparing the next generation to uphold ethical standards. Photographers must understand that their work carries the power to shape narratives. You can’t just take a picture without context or fabricate a story behind it,” he explained.
The Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk is an annual global event held in more than 18 countries, designed to connect photographers, improve their skills, explore new tools, and foster a sense of community.
The Abuja edition also served as the official launch of Africa Shooters, a creative community dedicated to amplifying African talent and stories on the global stage.