Godsent Ogbebor
11-Year-Old Photographer Pushes Culture and Girl-Child Advocacy
An 11-year-old photographer, Anuoluwapo Adedeji, known widely as Anufotogirl, is drawing national attention for using her camera to promote cultural preservation and support the girl child.
In a period when more young Nigerians are turning to creative expression, her work stands out for its focus on culture, environment, and children’s empowerment.
Her rise began with a bold step in 2021, when she organised “Oshodi Through the Lens,” becoming the first kid photographer in the country to host a Kid Photo Walk.
She followed it with another walk in 2022 themed “Climate Change Through the Lens,” held in Ikotun, Lagos, to raise awareness about the environment.
Her growing influence was evident at this year’s Lagos Book and Arts Festival (LABAF), where she exhibited 11 photographs celebrating the elaborate Gele styles associated with Mama Nike, founder of Nike Art Gallery.
Read also: Anufotogirl to Honour Nike Davies-Okundaye’s Gele Style in Solo Exhibition
She said the collection reflects her desire to preserve Nigerian heritage while giving a voice to young girls through her craft.
Participants at the festival, particularly students marking the 20th anniversary of Children and The Environment (CATE), expressed surprise and admiration after learning the images were produced by someone her age.
Her talent has also brought her close to several notable personalities, including Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka.
Anuoluwapo, who credited God and her parents for their support, appealed to families to encourage children’s talents early, saying such support helps young people discover their strengths and pursue meaningful dreams.
Beyond photography, she continues to advocate for the education of the girl child and uses her platform to urge Nigerians to support initiatives that uplift young girls.
