ISPPAN Pays Courtesy Visit to NDLEA Imo Commander, Announces 2026 Merit Award

The leadership of the Imo State Professional Photographers and Videographers Association of Nigeria (ISPPAN), led by its President, Comrd. Onyeahialam Chibueze T. of Lovers Multimedia, paid a familiarization and courtesy visit to CN Nnyigide Alexander Chinonye, Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Imo State Command, ahead of the 2026 World Photography Day celebration.

The visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between ISPPAN and the NDLEA Imo State Command, formally inviting the Commander to the association's annual celebration, and exploring opportunities for institutional recognition and collaboration.

Strengthening Collaboration Between ISPPAN and NDLEA

Speaking during the visit, Comrd. Onyeahialam explained that the association remains committed to building productive relationships with government institutions and security agencies across Imo State.

“Sir, we are here to strengthen the relationship between ISPPAN and NDLEA Imo State Command that has existed before now,” he stated.

He described ISPPAN as an umbrella professional association working to promote unity, cooperation, training and continuous professional development among photographers and videographers in Imo State.

The President emphasized that the association's objectives extend beyond professional representation to include strengthening relationships among members and promoting a more organized creative industry.

Celebrating Unity Within the Photography Community

Highlighting the association's achievements, Comrd. Onyeahialam identified unity of purpose as one of the significant developments within ISPPAN.

He noted that the professional relationships established through the association have also created lasting personal connections among members.

According to the President, two photographers who met during the previous year's World Photography Day celebration were preparing to marry on August 22, 2026.

He cited the development as an example of how the association continues to bring photographers and videographers together beyond their professional activities.

Recognising Efforts Against Drug Trafficking and Abuse

During the engagement, the ISPPAN President commended the NDLEA Commander for his activities in combating illicit drug trafficking and abuse within Imo State.

He specifically referenced the Command's recent public destruction of illicit drugs, describing the action as a significant demonstration of commitment to drug enforcement.

“That bold action has earned you commendations across Nigeria,” Comrd. Onyeahialam stated.

The association explained that its recognition of the Commander was informed by the enforcement efforts highlighted during the visit.

ISPPAN Announces 2026 Merit Award

As part of its World Photography Day 2026 activities, ISPPAN announced its decision to honour CN Nnyigide Alexander Chinonye with a merit award titled:

“The Most Bold Commander in Combating Drug Trafficking and Abuse 2026.”

The award was scheduled for presentation during the association's World Photography Day celebration on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, in Owerri, Imo State.

The recognition was intended to acknowledge the Commander's efforts in addressing drug trafficking and substance abuse.

Promoting Institutional Cooperation

The courtesy visit formed part of ISPPAN's wider engagements with public institutions and stakeholders ahead of World Photography Day 2026.

Through these engagements, the association seeks to strengthen professional recognition, promote collaboration and create opportunities for photographers and videographers to contribute to public awareness and community development.

ISPPAN remains committed to professional excellence, unity, training and the responsible use of photography and videography in documenting events and supporting societal development.

About ISPPAN

The Imo State Professional Photographers and Videographers Association of Nigeria (ISPPAN) is a professional association dedicated to promoting unity, excellence, training, collaboration and industry development among photographers and videographers in Imo State.