Follow Your Passion, Stay Focused—Photography CEO Urges Nigerian Youths

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Young Nigerians have been urged to pursue their passion with resilience and faith, regardless of societal expectations or early setbacks. The advice came from Oluremi Olalere, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kings Flash Photography, during the unveiling of the company’s new studio in Abuja over the weekend.

Speaking to journalists at the event, Olalere described his photography career as a calling driven by purpose and determination.

“Choosing photography was never a mistake,” he said. “Being a doctor or lawyer doesn’t make anyone better than a photographer. This is my path, and I walk it with pride. When you believe in your calling, God can take you anywhere.”

Olalere, who once served as the personal photographer to former Liberian President George Weah, shared how financial struggles forced him to shut down his first studio in Suleja, Niger State. “A year later, I reopened, and that studio still stands today,” he said.

He also recalled how many doubted his decision to move to the Federal Capital Territory. “They said I couldn’t make it in Abuja. Today, I live in my own seven-bedroom house,” he noted.

Now running operations in both Nigeria and Liberia, Olalere offers free photography training in Monrovia as part of his commitment to mentoring the next generation of creatives.

“People said others would take over. I said no. People came before us, and people will come after us—but we are still standing,” he said.

Olalere is also working on a personal project—a book titled Determined Mind—which he has been writing for the past seven years. Reflecting on his early years, he credited photography for sustaining him through university and advised youths not to wait for government jobs or family support.

“I don’t depend on anyone. I don’t even have games or movies on my phone. I stay focused,” he said.

Also speaking at the launch was Mosunmola Olalere, Director of Operations at Kings Flash Photography, who holds a master’s degree in organic chemistry. She described her transition into the business as a turning point in her life.

“When you marry a businessman, you must begin to think like one,” she said. “He begged me to help with the business, and since then, God has been faithful. We’ve grown beyond what we imagined.”

The unveiling marks a new chapter for Kings Flash Photography, with its founders committed to using their platform to inspire and empower the next generation of creative professionals.