Frequencies are managed by separate bodies that cover the broadcasting and
telecommunications sectors. It is expected that the coming digital switchover will
free up frequencies and increase the spectrum available to broadcasters. In the
meantime, frequency allocation is riddled with corruption and irregularities.
Generally, journalists in the private sector are better paid, though with the
drawback that they do not receive regular salaries. There is no uniformity in
the private sector in terms of salaries, with big news organisations paying far
more than smaller ones. This discrepancy is partly due to the absence of any
collectively bargained agreements between unions and employers. Poor salaries
force many senior staff to aspire for political jobs, especially as press secretaries in
State Governments, or in public relations or corporate communication positions
in companies and NGOs.
Corruption in the Nigerian media is a major source of concern for stakeholders.
Journalists are known to receive and even demand “brown envelops” – and, in
rare cases, gifts including expensive cars – from newsmakers in exchange for
favourable reporting.
There were a number of positive developments during the period covered by the
AMB. After many years of advocacy, the Nigerian Government finally issued 17
community radio licences, distributed in all the geopolitical zones of the country.
At least one is already broadcasting.
Another major development in the media landscape was the “explosion” of social
media and online journalism. Although widely viewed as a positive development,
it has also come with many challenges for the industry, as “Everyone is now a
journalist”.

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NIGERIA 2015

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