Preserving culture, many believe, is a shared responsibility. In recent years, the Nigerian girl child has increasingly embraced creative platforms—ranging from music and dance to drama, technology, poetry, and photography—to express her voice and passions. Among this emerging generation of creatives, Anuoluwapo Adedeji, popularly known as Anufotogirl, continues to distinguish herself as Nigeria’s youngest professional photographer, a girl-child ambassador, and an environmental advocate.
At just 11 years old, Anuoluwapo has demonstrated remarkable initiative and leadership. She became the first kid photographer to organize a Kid Photo Walk, hosting “Oshodi Through the Lens” in 2021 to mark World Photography Day. In 2022, she led another themed walk, “Climate Change Through the Lens,” held in Ikotun, Lagos, to raise awareness on environmental issues.
Her creativity was further showcased at the recently concluded Lagos Book and Arts Festival (LABAF), where she exhibited 11 striking photographs celebrating the iconic Gele styles of Mama Nike, founder of the renowned Nike Art Gallery. According to Anuoluwapo, her work is driven by a mission to preserve Nigerian culture through photography, while also using her voice to advocate for the girl child.
During the festival, students participating in the 20th anniversary of Children and The Environment (CATE) expressed excitement and admiration upon discovering that such compelling work was produced by an 11-year-old. Her talent has already brought her into contact with several prominent creatives, including Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, among other distinguished Nigerians.
Expressing gratitude to God and her parents for their support, Anuoluwapo urged parents across the country to identify, nurture, and support the talents of their children, noting that early encouragement can inspire young people to achieve extraordinary feats.
Beyond her art, she is also committed to supporting the education of the girl child, using her photography as a platform for advocacy and empowerment. Members of the public who wish to support her mission are encouraged to donate through her official bank accounts. ( Anuoluwapo Adedeji Gtbank 0242972360).
