Adebote Mayowa’s ‘Makoko’ snags 2nd runner-up spot in COP29 climate action contest

-powerful visual storytelling earns international recognition

October 27, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

Nigerian environmental photographer, Adebote Mayowa, has made the country proud by emerging as the second runner-up in the “Climate Action in Focus” international photography competition organized by the COP 29 Azerbaijan Operating Company.

Mayowa’s captivating entry, titled “Makoko,” showcases Nigeria’s environmental challenges, particularly highlighting the struggles of the Makoko community, a waterway settlement in Lagos.

The “Climate Action in Focus” contest aimed to raise global awareness about climate change and support environmental protection efforts through visual storytelling.

Many photographers from around the world participated, sharing unique perspectives on climate change’s impact on daily life.

Mayowa’s achievement is a sign that speaks on his dedication to climate justice and advocacy through visual storytelling. As Creative Director of Climagraphy, he has built a portfolio that underscores the harsh realities of climate change, particularly its impact on vulnerable communities in Nigeria and beyond.

Speaking to The Yoruba Times on Sunday, he explained how photography has become a tool for impact, bridging gap between people and the environment

“Growing up in a community ravaged by pollution and climate change sparked my passion for environmental advocacy. Witnessing its devastating effects fueled my commitment to raising awareness and driving change” Mayowa said.

He continued, “Photography became my tool for impact, bridging the gap between people and environmental realities. My work goes beyond images, delivering real outcomes for affected communities.

“Projects like Black Oxygen showed me the power of visual storytelling in mobilizing justice and empowering marginalized voices. Every photograph I take reinforces my conviction to expose environmental truths and advocate for a sustainable future.”

His work has earned him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most versatile environmental and documentary photographers, committed to making climate issues accessible through impactful exhibitions and documentary projects.

An exhibition of selected photographs from the competition, including “Makoko,” will be held on November 20 at the Azerbaijan Pavilion within the Green Zone during COP 29.

Through his photography, Mayowa continues to inspire action on climate change, using his lens to capture stories that might otherwise remain untold.

“I’m driven by my conviction to make environmental realities visible and to advocate for a sustainable future,” Mayowa stated.