FIFA and CAF accredited photo journalist, Abdul Momoh, has emphasized the need to train and retrain young aspiring journalists, which informed his establishment of the first-of-its-kind photo training seminar called the Abdul Momoh Photography Masterclass, as reported by the Independent.

Momoh explained this on Wednesday at a press briefing at the Taiwo Awoniyi Sports Media Center and SWAN Secretariat in Ilorin, where major sports and media stakeholders were present.

“Visual capture of event has gone beyond just photography.

“It’s and industry that we are yet to cash on Nigeria and I fear that young photographers, especially photo journalsists may not be able to compete in this new world of photo creativity,” he said.

Momoh spoke to an audience of key stakeholders in Kwara which included Governor Abdulrahaman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, ably represented by the Executive Chairman of Kwara State Sports Commission, KSC, Coach Bola Mogaji, seasoned sports administrator, coach, teacher and Director of Sports, KSC, Mall. Ibrahim Bako, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Kwara State chapter chairman, Ismail Ayodeji High Chief, Alloy Chukwuemeka, aka ACC, the Director of Football, ABS FC, Ilorin, and many others.

The masterclass scheduled for December 17, 2024, in Ilorin is aimed at enhancing the skills of aspiring photojournalists.

It also combines theoretical, practical sessions and is expected to leave a lasting impact on participants while promoting professionalism in sports photography.

Delivering a good will message on behalf of the governor, Coach Mogaji encouraged journalists to take advantage of Mall Abdulrazaq’s open-door policy to seek clarifications on sports-related matters.

“This will help curb misinformation and ensure accurate reporting,” he noted.

He further described the master class as a significant step toward equipping future photojournalists with the necessary skills to excel in the field.

Also speaking at the occassion, doyen of sports broadcast and still very much on the field of practice, Bayour Issah, said that the seminar aims to refresh participants’ skills and broaden their understanding of photography.

He urged members of SWAN and other journalists to participate, emphasizing on the importance of continuous learning in the profession.

Kwara SWAN Chairman, Ismail, assured the organizers of the association’s it’s full support, aligning the masterclass with SWAN’s objective of enhancing the professional capacity of its members through training and retraining.

Some of the highlights of the event include, the seminar proper at Henry George Hotel Multi-purpose Hall, Adewole, Ilorin. The place is also the venue of the planned award ceremony.