By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has created a special collection of images called the Nigeria Stock Image Bank (NSIB).
This is the first of its kind in Africa and will help promote local content and boost the economy.
The council has set up a committee to oversee the project, led by renowned photographer Kelechi Amadi Obi.
ARCON’s Director General, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, explained that this initiative is crucial for developing local content and promoting indigenous production. He believes that creating an African-centric image repository will empower local talent and ensure that African stories are told accurately on the global stage.
The committee has three months to submit an interim report which will outline key aspects such as technology, copyright protection, and strategies for global market penetration. The committee members represent various sectors of the advertising and media industry.
Kelechi Amadi Obi expressed his honor and determination to lead the committee. He emphasized the importance of telling African stories and showcasing local content. He noted that currently, online image searches often yield results captured by non-African photographers and it is essential for Africans to be their own storytellers.
The Nigeria Stock Image Bank will provide a platform for African visual narratives to be shared with the world. Industry observers believe this initiative will have far-reaching implications, particularly for photographers, models, and content creators.
It is in line with the growing trend of cultural authenticity in global media and advertising. With proper implementation, this innovative effort could become a model for other African nations.
