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HAKEEM
SHITTA
PHOTO ARCHIVES

Documenting Nigeria’s Creative History

Hakeem Shitta Collections

A curated journey through rare Nigerian photography, art, and history.

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Legends & Celebrities

Icons like Fela, RMD, and Joke Silva—captured in rare moments by Hakeem Shitta.

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Events & Iconic Moments

From Hubert Ogunde's funeral to National Theatre shows, all capured with his lens

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Legends & Celebrities

From Ijebu Grammar School to national theatre posters, Hakeem Shitta’s early designs shaped Nigeria’s visual voice.

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Artworks & Illustrations

Artwork from Nigeria’s stage, screen, and sound—Hakeem Shitta’s illustrations defined an era.

Newspaper & Magazines

Hakeem O. Shitta’s visuals—featuring icons like Olu Jacobs, Joke Silva, and Fela—graced Nigeria’s most iconic publications in the ’80s and ’90s.

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ABOUT THIS PROJECT

Our Story

The Hakeem Shitta Photo Archives is dedicated to preserving the wide-ranging legacy of Hakeem Olatunbosun Shitta—photographer, painter, graphic designer, karateka, humanist, and publisher of Arts Illustrated Weekly. Through thousands of rare images and publications, this project invites you to rediscover Nigeria’s vibrant artistic and cultural past.

What people say about Hakeem?

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"He was self sacrificing and a man of vision. I am particularly enthralled by his devotion to publishing photographs in his newsletters on events in the arts around Lagos … He was never deterred by challenges and ill‑health."

 JOSEPHINE IGBERAESE

CONTACT US

Reach out for inquiries, collaborations, or to discuss the archive.

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