"I fell in love with photojournalism" Three questions for Lucy Elukpo

Ten Nigerian photojournalists have received several months of personalised technical and editorial support, in order to help them develop a long-term career plan and produce high-quality informative photographs for a national audience. Lucy Elukpo, a photojournalist for The Guardian in Abuja, tells us her story.

Why did you choose a career in photojournalism?
Lucy Elukpo: It’s my passion! I studied botany at the University of Jos, but I fell in love with photojournalism and started taking a few courses alongside my studies. And now here I am!

What are the main challenges you face as a young female photographer in Nigeria?
Lucy Elukpo: Working in the field, in a sector that is largely dominated by men, doesn’t make things easy. It fosters rivalries and unhealthy competition. I find it difficult to gain exposure for my work on any platform other than that of The Guardian.

Why was the Naija in Lights project important to you?
Lucy Elukpo: Naija in Lights and StoryMi Academy enabled me to make a name for myself, to receive support from brilliant experts, to access the financial resources required to pursue my personal goals and to be able to express myself through my photos and tell a story. This project helps me to discover my potential, to push through my mental barriers and to find different ways of telling my story. It also gives me an opportunity to showcase my work and to work for different media outlets.