Nsikanabasi Effiong, visual storyteller based in Lagos, Nigeria

Nsikanabasi Effiong is a photographer and visual artist whose work explores the depth of human experience - grace, connection, and meaning, captured in every moment. Through a keen understanding of colour, light, and shadow, he creates images that tell stories beyond words, evoking emotions that linger long after they are seen. Rooted in themes of mental health, faith, and identity, Nsikanabasi’s work is both personal and universal.

He seeks to preserve fleeting emotions, celebrate individuality, and explore the beauty and complexities of life. Whether crafting evocative portraits, capturing the vibrancy of fashion, or documenting culture and community, his photography bridges the gap between vulnerability and strength, stillness and movement, the seen and the felt.

Effiong's approach to storytelling goes beyond aesthetics; it is about connection. Every frame is an extension of his journey, his search for meaning, his reflections on life, and his unwavering belief that photography is more than an art form. It is a way to navigate the world, heal through creation, and contribute to conversations that matter.

Effiong's work carries an emotional honesty, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and feel. His photography has received international recognition, leading to exhibitions in New York, Bali, and most recently, Germany, where he was part of a Black History Month showcase.

His dedication to visual storytelling earned him the prestigious National Award for Nigeria in the Sony World Photography Awards, a testament to his ability to capture profound narratives with striking depth. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire to connect, he continues to push the boundaries of his work.

His passion for storytelling doesn’t just lie in what is seen but in what is felt. With every photograph, he seeks to remind us of the power of a single moment, the weight it carries, the emotions it holds, and the meaning it leaves behind.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I’m honestly just a chill guy. I love playing video games, hanging out with friends, and I recently picked up reading which has been a surprisingly fun way to slow down. Outside of photography, I try to keep life simple and enjoy the little things.

How did you first get into photography?

It really started in my 100 level, my first year of school. We freshers were just excited to be on campus, walking around and soaking everything in. I remember taking pictures of my roommates with my phone, and they loved them so much that they told me I should consider being a photographer. That same night, I decided to open an Instagram account for my photography, just for fun, not knowing how far it would take me.

Then in 2020, my friend Rachel gifted me a camera, a gift I honestly didn’t expect. That changed everything. With the camera, I became more intentional, learning, practicing, and realising that photography was more than just a hobby for me. It was a passion and a way of telling stories that matter. Looking back, it was those small beginnings with my roommates and Rachel’s unexpected gift that sparked the journey I’m on today.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche?

My work is rooted in visual storytelling, as I approach photography in a way that cuts across different styles rather than being confined to just one. At the core of everything I create is a strong narrative whether I’m working in fashion, editorial, or documentary spaces. Storytelling drives my images, and I love infusing emotion, culture, and personal experiences into every frame.

I chose this path because I love capturing emotions and stories that feel authentic and meaningful. Over time, my style has grown from experimenting with my camera to being more intentional, using light, colour, and composition to create images that carry depth and honesty.

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography?

The main themes that drive my photography are mental health, faith, identity, and human connection. I’m drawn to emotions, the quiet moments, the struggles, and the joy that makes us human.

Through my images, I aim to create work that feels honest, soulful, and relatable, allowing people to see a piece of themselves in the stories I tell. For me, photography is more than aesthetics; it’s about connection. I want my work to spark reflection, open conversations, and remind people that they’re not alone in their experiences.

What's the one achievement or moment in your photography career that you're most proud of?

One achievement I’m most proud of is winning the Sony World Photography Award in 2025. It was a huge milestone for me, not just because of the recognition, but because it reminded me how far I’ve come from taking pictures of my roommates in my first year of school to being honoured on an international stage. That moment affirmed my belief in storytelling and encouraged me to keep pushing my craft forward.

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a photographer is not having the funds to support my personal projects. There were times I had ideas and visions that felt bigger than my resources, and it was frustrating. I overcame it by learning to start with what I had improvising and being resourceful with simple tools and spaces.

That experience taught me that creativity isn’t about having everything, but about making the most of what’s available. It shaped my perspective and reminded me that limitations can actually push you to be more intentional and innovative.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

I would love to collaborate with Vogue. Their platform has such a powerful influence in shaping culture and fashion, and I admire how they continue to merge storytelling with style. Working with Vogue would allow me to bring my love for fashion, editorial, and storytelling to a global stage, while also highlighting narratives from my own perspective and culture.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

I just recently found out about 54Ruum, and I think it’s a really cool platform. I love how it’s giving space to showcase African photographers and their stories. It feels like a strong community to be part of.

How's the photography and art space in your country: how has it evolved in recent years?

The photography and art space in Nigeria has grown a lot in recent years. There’s more recognition now, with Nigerian artists being featured on global platforms, and more local events like Lagos Photo Festival and ART X Lagos creating opportunities to showcase work.

Many creatives are blending tradition with new ideas, experimenting with identity, culture, and digital art, while social media and technology have made it easier to share work with wider audiences.

At the same time, challenges remain like funding for projects is hard to find, resources and institutional support are still limited, and building a sustainable career beyond visibility can be tough. But overall, the scene is exciting and evolving, with more storytelling, innovation, and platforms emerging every year.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their photography journey, what would it be?

Honestly, just keep going. Sleep on YouTube, practice a lot, and train your visual eye to really see things differently. Don’t overthink it, post your work, even if it’s not perfect. The more you create and share, the better you’ll get.