SECTOR 3

and villages are the hardest hit in terms of broadcast coverage, and are often
left without any signal. One panellist said many are forced to follow radio and
television programmes from neighbouring countries like Cameroon.

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator.

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

2.9 (2008 = 3.2)

3.9
The state/public broadcaster offers diverse
programming formats for all interests.
Nigeria’s state or public broadcasters offer a wide range of programming targeting
different interests. Many run programmes in the major local languages, which vary
from state to state and city to city. Stations based in rural communities tend to
pay attention to issues that affect those communities. Call-in shows are becoming
increasingly popular, and give ordinary people a chance to speak up and be heard.
Some stations run specialised programmes for unique segments of the audience.
Radio Nigeria Enugu, for example, runs a show on which people with disabilities
who are actively involved in a business or a trade can share their stories with
listeners, in the hope of challenging and inspiring their peers.
However, lapses also exist. The vast majority of programming is directed at an urban
audience. Furthermore, panellists were of the view that even though there is an
effort to use local languages on air, it is hard to satisfy the more than 300 different
languages and ethnic groups. Significant segments of the public are ignored with
the absence of the use of techniques such as sign language on television. The lack of
skilled personnel also limits the extent to which programming can be diversified.

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AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NIGERIA 2011

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