Bolaji Alonge, a visual historian and documentary photographer, is using rephotography to create a local archive of Lagos’s evolving landscape. His projects, including Eyes of a Lagos Boy and Lagos Then and Now, involve capturing contemporary images from the exact locations of historical photographs, revealing shifts in the city’s physical and social fabric. This method, which requires meticulous research to locate original vantage points and match camera angles, provides a tangible record of Lagos’s rapid development. Alonge emphasizes that the approach transforms everyday photography into a tool for tracking urban evolution, offering a counterpoint to external narratives that have historically shaped perceptions of African cities.
The comparative images generated by Alonge’s work have sparked public discourse, highlighting how residents perceive change. While some lament the loss of old landmarks and green spaces, others acknowledge modern improvements. However, the project underscores a tendency for collective memory to romanticize the past, as seen in online debates where viewers share personal recollections and critique city planning decisions. Alonge notes that these visual pairings often ignite discussions about Lagos’s trajectory, with participants questioning who drives its development and what priorities should guide its future. The project’s digital presence has amplified these conversations, but plans are underway to expand its reach beyond online platforms.
Rephotography’s significance extends beyond Lagos, with similar initiatives in global cities like London and New York. Alonge argues that sustained urban photography is essential for preserving time, as a seemingly ordinary street corner today could become a historical artifact in decades. The method also raises questions about the balance between progress and preservation, as concrete expansion replaces natural landscapes while some areas see unexpected growth. By centering local voices, Alonge’s work challenges dominant narratives and offers a grounded perspective on Lagos’s transformation, ensuring that the city’s story is told through the lens of its residents.
The project’s emphasis on historical accuracy and public engagement reflects a broader effort to democratize urban history. As Lagos continues to grow, Alonge’s rephotography initiative serves as both a record and a catalyst for dialogue, bridging the past and present. By highlighting the city’s dynamic changes, it invites citizens to reflect on their role in shaping Lagos’s future, ensuring that its visual history remains a shared and evolving narrative.