SECTOR 2

Broadcasting in local languages is common, and is expected to improve with the
anticipated arrival of community radios. Some newspapers also publish in local
languages. Daily Trust, for example has a Hausa edition.
As with languages and ethnic groups, the dominant religions such as Christianity
and Islam, tend to get more media coverage than say traditional African
worshippers and religious cults. Powerful pastors habitually buy long hours on
radio and television to preach their message. Islamic preachers dominate most
Friday broadcasts.

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:

2.8 (2008: N/A; 2011: 2.4)

2.9 Media cover the full spectrum of economic, cultural, political, social, national and local perspectives and
conduct investigative stories.
No sector is taboo on the Nigerian media landscape. They cover a wide range of
issues – particularly politics, business, culture, entertainment, economy, religion.
However, some sectors and issues tend to enjoy more coverage. Political and
business stories are more likely to find their way onto a cover or as a headline,
while culture may be relegated to inside pages and specialised programs.
A number of local stories also appear in dedicated programs and columns.
The situation is improving with the increase in local FM stations, community
radio stations and regional papers. The Nation, for example, started an 8-page
supplement covering the South West. The NTA runs a number of local programs
sponsored by local governments. AIT and Channels run late night community
newscasts.
Investigative journalism is still a work in progress. Increasingly, private newspapers
are setting up investigative desks with support from civil society organisations.

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AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NIGERIA 2015

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