SECTOR 4

The story was published, with quotes and vivid descriptions, even though the event
never took place. This was only discovered when the event organisers called the
publisher to express their disgust with the report.

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:

2.4 (2008 = 2.8)

4.3
The media cover the full spectrum of events,
issues and cultures, including business/economics,
cultural, local and investigative stories.
The Nigerian media covers almost every aspect of national life, but politics,
government affairs, defence and business are the dominant beats.
Little attention is paid to investigative journalism across the industry because it
requires more commitment and resources. Only a few media outlets attempt to
undertake investigative projects, using techniques like embedding undercover
reporters. Next newspaper, for instance, is noted for its thoroughly researched and
in-depth follow-up reports. Civil society tries to encourage investigative journalism
by providing incentives such as training and awards. The ‘Wole Soyinka Award
for Investigative Reporting’ is the Nobel laureate’s contribution to the promotion
of this journalistic genre, which has huge potential for promoting values such
as transparency, accountability and good governance. It is widely expected that
the passing of the Freedom of Information Act in 2011 will make investigative
journalism easier and boost interest.

48

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NIGERIA 2011

Select target paragraph3