Abdulbaqi emphasises power of photography in Journalism
By Abubakar Abdulquadri and Bashir Dawodu
The Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences (CIS), University of Ilorin, Prof. Saudat Salah Abdulbaqi, has charged 100-level Mass Communication students to utilise their photojournalism skills to capture impactful images that tell compelling stories to the world.
Prof. Abdulbaqi stated this during the 2026 Photo Exhibition, themed “Seeing Through the Smartphone Lens,” held at the CIS Lecture Theatre last Tuesday (January 13, 2026).
The Dean stressed that a good photograph is a powerful communication tool, saying, “A picture speaks louder than a thousand words.” She encouraged students to be patient, creative, and focused on achieving meaningful visual storytelling.
Prof. Abdulbaqi equally implored students to maximise every learning opportunity available to them to acquire innovative and relevant skills that could add value to their career progression.
She also warned exhibitors against seeing the challenges faced as setback but rather remain focused on their goals and as well learn from their failures and strive for excellence in their disciplines.
Also speaking, the Ag. Head of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Ilorin, Dr Patrick Udende, urged students to continuously improve their skills, noting that the media environment demands creativity and self-reliance. He said, “There’s no white-collar job awaiting anyone; photography can be a career on its own.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Lenscraft Productions, Mr Sanni Abdullah, highlighted the potentials of smartphones in photojournalism, citing advantages like portability and ease of editing. He shared tips on improving skills, including regular practice and seeking feedback.
In his remarks, the General Manager of UNILORIN FM, Mr Idris Akintola Alooma, commended the organisers and encouraged the students to sustain the event annually.
Also speaking at the event, Dr Amos Bajeh and Dr Rasaq Adisa, highlighted the importance of skill acquisition and admonished the students not to take this exhibition talent showcase for granted but try to nurture their talents beyond the classroom and also to seek uniqueness by capturing unusual and compelling images.
The exhibition showcased students’ photography talents, with Group 25 emerging as the overall winner, followed by Group 10 and Group 3. All participating groups received certificates and monetary awards.
