Journalism

By Suleiman Ahmed 

In today’s communication landscape, mass communication and journalism are often used interchangeably, particularly by those with little or no knowledge of both fields. This misconception leads to questions about their definitions, similarities and distinctions. While both are components of the media, they represent distinct concepts. 

Mass communication involves reaching diverse audiences through various media channels, such as radio, television, newspapers, websites, and social media. Journalism is a specific practice within mass communication that focuses on gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information.

According to Little John and Foss, mass communication is a “process whereby media organisations produce and transmit messages to a large public and the process by which those messages are sought, used, understood and influence the audience.”

McQuail states that mass communication is “only one of the processes of communication operating at the society-wide level, readily identified by its institutional characteristics.” It involves creating, transmitting, receiving, and analysing messages through mass media.

Mass communication aims to share information with a broader audience and influence societal norms, behaviour, and attitudes. It has a wider audience and covers various topics like entertainment, education, advertising, public relations, etc. Mass communication content is informative, educative, persuasive, or entertaining. It is mostly designed to capture attention, encourage specific actions, or elicit emotional responses. 

A professional in mass communication can work in various industries, including entertainment, business, politics, health, and agriculture, by creating content that will encourage the audience and serve a specific objective. Mass communication has a broad spectrum of mediums, including television, radio, newspapers, and magazines.

In contrast, journalism is a subset of mass communication. It focuses mainly on gathering and reporting news about events, issues, and topics that are of interest to the public. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) defines journalism as the “work of journalists, media workers, and social media producers who gather, process, and distribute news and related content.” 

Meanwhile, journalist Robert Niles sees journalism as a “form of writing that tells people about things that happened, but that they might not have known about already.” Journalism seeks to report the truth and provide accurate, fair, and thorough information. It includes analysis, uncovered facts, and insights into relevant stories.

Unlike mass communication, journalism encourages critical thinking and discussion among readers, listeners, and viewers. It is guided by strong ethical guidelines to ensure credibility, objectivity, and accountability. Journalism is mostly involved in reporting, editing, and producing news content for media organisations such as radio, television, newspapers, magazines, and other news platforms.

In conclusion, while mass communication and journalism are interconnected, they belong to distinct fields and have different objectives. Mass communication serves a broader purpose by Engaging a heterogeneous audience through various media to convey messages. On the other hand, journalism is a discipline dedicated to accurately reporting facts and information. Journalism plays a crucial role in informing the public and fostering democratic participation.

Suleiman Ahmed wrote from Bayero University, Kano, and can be contacted via suleson94@gmail.com.

By Yakubu Nasiru Khalid

Still, addressing the public’s issues remains challenging in northern Nigeria. Media outlets favour partisanship over accuracy or truth, and the Nigerian media requires a controlling apparatus. 

Media outlets are considered a room where the underprivileged can address their problems to the government or private individuals who breach their rights. However, media outlets are now mainly sponsored and do not act independently or impartially when telling the truth. 

When I was young, I saw journalists as saviours who worked as architects or social engineers to prioritise public interests and solutions over personal or government interests, but now I see the opposite.

This results in the loss of hope that the electronic or printing media cannot serve as a messianic approach to standing against the breaching of the rights of ordinary citizens.

Even though media and journalistic standards attest to and measure a report’s accuracy and truthfulness, the ongoing challenge for media outlets remains their preference for partisanship over impartiality and independence.

For this reason, fact-checking media and journalists are mostly needed in electronic media (online Newspapers). Most media companies are owned and managed by people not equipped with journalism etiquette; they do it for a passion. 

While passion in journalism can often render one unprofessional, incompetent, or unethical in reporting, investigating, or addressing issues, it is essential for those who have not studied media to understand its etiquette, even if it means obtaining a certificate in the field.

It’s known that Nigerian media companies are owned by private individuals and deprived of government-approved control mechanisms or apparatus. They aim to generate income, which leads to sparks of misinformation from various media outlets. 

Lastly, I suggest media companies refrain from favouring personal or political interests over factual or truthful reportingor addressing public issues. I also advise those passionate about journalism to learn its etiquette formally.

Yakubu Nasiru Khalid wrote via yakubunasirukhalid@gmail.com.

By Anas Abbas

Faculty of Communication of Bayero University, Kano and the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters organized a two-day round table meeting on investigative and data-driven journalism challenges.

The roundtable, held on Monday, focused on challenges of investigative and data-driven journalism and was themed ” Round table meeting on issues and challenges of investigative and data-driven journalism in the broadcast sector in North West Nigeria.”

The event, organized in collaboration with the Society of Nigerian Broadcasting, took place at the CBN Centre of Excellence at Bayero University, Kano.

Professor Umaru Pate, a communications expert and seasoned scholar, presented a paper titled “The Imperative of Investigative and Data-Driven Journalism in North West Nigeria.” 

As the keynote speaker, Pate thoroughly explained that “investigative journalism contributes to freedom of information.” 

Pate noted that some companies might pull their advertisements if the media content conflicts with their interests. 

He highlighted the pressing issue of inadequate funding for research within media organisations.

Pate noted that many outlets often overlook the necessity of investing in thorough research, emphasizing that producing quality news requires financial commitment. “To deliver high-quality journalism, organizations must be willing to allocate resources toward research,” he stated.

He addressed another significant challenge faced by investigative journalism, which is “the threats to journalists’ safety,” which underscores the need for greater support and protection for those committed to uncovering important stories.

By Tijani Abiola

In a spacy world saturated with information, the desert of personal interest and a space box of selfish interest, discerning the truth has become increasingly challenging, from social media feeds to 24-hour news cycles.

We are inundated with facts, opinions, and outright falsehoods. Yet, the quest for truth remains vital, influencing our decisions, shaping our beliefs, and guiding our actions. So, who can tell you the truth?

Science, by its very nature, is a rigorous pursuit of truth. Through the scientific method, hypotheses are tested, results are peer-reviewed, and conclusions are drawn based on empirical evidence. Institutions like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and universities worldwide are pillars of this endeavour. Their commitment to objectivity and reproducibility makes them reliable sources of truth, particularly in areas like medicine, climate change, and technology, but can we say they are the real source of truth?

Media outlets are a relaxed space for the most trusted outlets for news reports, an avenue that most use to suit themselves and tailor their way of life. Most of the time, the media can also be biased. Established organisations like the BBC, The New York Times, and Reuters have built reputations for thorough and responsible journalism. These institutions adhere to journalistic standards, including fact-checking, corroboration, and ethical reporting. Their role in a democratic society is to hold power accountable and inform the public, making them essential sources of truth, but yet, can they tell you the truth?

Experts with a deep understanding of their fields and elders with numerous past useful experiences can provide accurate information and insights. Whether it’s a doctor discussing health issues, a historian analysing past events, or an economist interpreting market trends, these individuals rely on years of study and experience. Their expertise and dedication to their disciplines make them credible sources of truth; still, will you accept trends, mind experience and expertise ideas as the truth?

Ultimately, each of us has the responsibility to discern the truth. Critical thinking is our best defence against misinformation. By questioning sources, analysing arguments, and seeking evidence, we can better navigate the complex landscape of modern information. No one takes information to trust and accepts it as truth, except if they are convinced to accept it as truth.

In a world where the truth can often seem elusive, it is essential to exercise critical thinking before accepting any information to be true. One can only convince and prove with past experiences or actions that seem to complement the existing information left for you to think deeply and analyse whether to believe or negate the information. 

Still, you are the best person to tell yourself the truth through your critical thinking, valuing evidence over opinion, expertise over hearsay, and integrity over convenience. We can navigate the complexities of our information-rich world. Ultimately, the truth is out there, but we must seek and accept it diligently and responsibly.

Tijani Abiola T. wrote via abiolatijani001@gmail.com.

By Prof. Abdalla Uba Adamu

Those with a deep knowledge of my biography will always remember me in the Faculty of Education’s Department of Education, which I joined in July 1980 at the relatively young age of 24. With a professorship in 1997, I felt I had enough of Education: I was talking loud and saying nothing. So, I shifted my research focus to media and cultural communication. 

I never thought the shift would lead to another professorship in 2012, giving an academically glamorous status of being ‘dambu mai hawa biyu’ (up till now, I don’t know exactly what this epithet means!), or double professor – in Science Education and Media and Cultural Communication. Three people were responsible for this, one from Edo State and another two from Zaria. How did it all start?

In 1992, I had just returned from a Fulbright African Senior Research Scholar residency at the University of California, Berkely, when I was visited in my office by the late Prof. Mike Egbon (from Benin), then the Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University Kano. It was our first meeting, and it instantly created a deep bond of friendship between us. He wants me to work with a student of his in supervising a PhD project on the Mass Communication curriculum in Nigerian universities. I was happy to oblige, especially when I learnt that the student is another highly respected colleague, now Prof. Umar Faruk Jibril, the Dean of Communication at BUK. 

Thus began my first footsteps in Mass Communication. Before long, I was drafted to teach Advanced Research Methods for PhD students (while still in the Department of Education). This put me in contact with virtually all the current staff of the Faculty of Communication. I felt so happy and so comfortable with them, as well as their tutors in other areas of the Department. One tutor stood out. He was Mal. Gausu Ahmad (from Zaria, if you are keeping track!).

My relationship with Mal. Gausu was incredible and often amusing. For some reason, we were both mesmerised by each other. I had followed his column in New Nigeria years earlier. I was fascinated by his incredible take on Bayero University in his essay “Looking Beyond the Badala”, a critique of the lack of synthesis between Bayero University and its host community. That article drew my attention to Mal. Gausu and I became an avid follower. So, when Mike drafted me into supervision duties in Mass Comm, I met Gausu Ahmad for the first time. 

I saw a neoclassical Hausa gentleman in Malam Gausu. His cheerful mien reminds one of an older Uncle or a grandfather but with contemporary perspectives—for instance, Mal. Gausu is the only person I know who has commissioned a traditional barber (wanzami) to come to his office and cut his hair in molo style. No barbing salons for him! We became instantly drawn to each other. 

In 2003, I was the Chairman of the defunct Center for Hausa Cultural Studies Kano, a think tank on interfaces between media and society. We organised an international conference on Hausa films—the first of its kind in the country. Virtually all the staff of Mass Communication, including Mal. Gausu, was wholly involved in the conference. Mal. Gausu was the HOD of Mass Communication then. It was at the conference that he consolidated his relationship with me. 

I was then also asked to teach a course on Online Communication in the Department, introducing new ideas that departed from the straight-up Mass Communication scholarship of the Department in print and broadcast media. By then, I had well-established online communities on the defunct Yahoo! Groups (since 2001), which became the first gathering places for future social media citizens. So, I was excited to be asked to teach Online Communication – even more excited were junior colleagues who wanted to be part of the course. 

This went on for a while, with me being an adjunct member of the Mass Communication Department, a position I relish far more than my education position at the university. In 2004, my break-out media year, I was a visiting professor at the University of Cologne, Germany. The paper was “Enter the Dragon: Shari’a, Popular Culture and Film Censorship in Northern Nigeria.” When I returned, Mal. Gausu expressed dismay that I presented a paper about events in Kano at a foreign university. He insisted that the paper must be represented in the Department of Mass Communication, which I did later in the year – thus opening up new vistas of media anthropology. To cement this position, I invited Brian Larkin to come to the Department and present his book “Signal and Noise” about media anthropology in July 2008. It is the first public presentation of this ground-breaking book.  

Unknown to me, Mal. Gausu has submitted my name to the Registrar of the University, then Mal. Sani Aminu (Zaria!) for appointment as Part-Time Lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication. This was instantly approved, and I was only aware of it when I got the letter in November 2005. From then on, I became part of the Mass Communication ecosystem. Not only did I have more classes, but I also had more students. The number of postgraduate students I supervised in a few years in Mass Comm was far more than the number of students in all the 25 years I had been in Education. 

Under his leadership of the department, a wonderful atmosphere of camaraderie and brotherhood was fostered. His elegant, calm demeanour does not brook any disagreement with any policy because policies and decisions in the Department were collectively arrived at and implemented together. 

His biggest trait, however, was his humility. He was indeed a knowledge seeker. He was never shy or hesitant in asking questions about what he did not know. Our offices were always close together, and in the evenings after Asr prayer, when the building was quieter, we spent moments exchanging ideas and concepts. He became a sort of student to me. He would ALWAYS insist on carrying my rucksack to my car. ALWAYS. He fiercely resists anyone attempting to take the rucksack from him, insisting it is his duty and honour. On the other hand, I always felt uncomfortable with an older person taking my rucksack to the car! But he always insisted. 

From January to March 2012, I was a European Union visiting professor at the University of Warsaw. When I returned in April, informed my Vice-Chancellor, and submitted my report, the next thing I knew was that I was caught up in the whirlwind of being appointed as professor of Media and Cultural Communication and already a professor of Science Education since 1997. I was surprised as I thought it was not done. However, the vice chancellor who did it, Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed, was another bold and innovative person. And from Zaria! After all the due process, I was eventually announced as a Media and Cultural Communication professor in January 2013, effective October 2012. 

The icing on the cake was the clause that I was to move from the Department of Education to the Department of Mass Communication. After 32 years in Education and having served as HOD for nine years, I was delighted to leave. Thanks to Mal. Gausu Ahmad, I felt more comfortable, personally, emotionally and intellectually, in Mass Communication. I felt blessed. Imagine doing research in an area I am deeply interested in and making contributions to knowledge. Currently, in 2024, as a staff member of the Department of Information and Media Studies, I am under the administrative leadership of Prof. Nura Ibrahim. Do I need to say it? Ok. From Zaria!

The biggest lessons I learned from Malam Gausu were humility and patience. He faced many challenges during his time in Mass Comm, but he stoically endured them and eventually triumphed. 

Mal. Gausu retired at the age of 70 on 12 September 2024. He retired as a professor, but his humility and salute to scholarship will always root him in the superior ‘Malam’ category. Anyone can be a professor, but it takes a special kind of person to be appreciated and applauded as a Malam. Mal. Gausu Ahmad is genuinely a first-class Malam, embodying all the qualities of such a position. 

I congratulate him on his successful and honourable retirement from the University. He was one of the few academicians who brought real-life print journalism to academia and brought out the true application of the theory of Political Economy. His doctoral thesis, “The Rise and Fall of the New Nigerian Newspaper”, in 2014, followed by publication by ABU Press in 2016 under the same title, is an excellent slice of northern Nigerian media history, as only possible from an insider. If you really want to know print media history in northern Nigeria, get the book. 

I pray to Allah (SWT) to continue to endow him with humility, kindness, gentleness, health and prosperity as he charts the next course of his life. 

Oh, and my prayers and gratitude to Zage-zagi for being ‘iyanyen gidana’ in scholarship (but not iyayen gidan Kanawa)!

By Uzair Adam 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kano State Council inaugurated its newly elected executives on August 10, 2024. 

Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, Secretary of NUJ Zone A, disclosed this information in a statement on Sunday, which The Daily Reality obtained.

Kaura emphasised that the event showcased unity and commitment, with notable dignitaries from various sectors in attendance. 

This turnout underscored the Union’s crucial role in promoting professional journalism in Nigeria.

The statement read, “The ceremony featured the Vice President of NUJ Zone A, Muhammad Tukur Umar, who represented the National President, Chief (Dr.) Chris Isiguzo. 

“In his keynote address, Tukur Umar emphasised the need for the new leaders to prioritise the welfare and unity of NUJ members. 

“He called for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity during their tenure to ensure effective and impactful leadership.”

Representing the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, was the Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Baba Dantiye. 

Dantiye congratulated the newly inaugurated executives in his remarks and pledged the government’s support. 

“He urged the leaders to seize this opportunity to make a significant impact on the growth and development of journalism in Kano State,” the statement continued.

Comrade Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, Zonal Secretary of NUJ Zone A administered the oath of office. 

The event was attended by a distinguished array of guests, including the Deputy National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the National President of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, the Commissioner of Justice, and the National President of NAWOJ. 

“Their presence added to the significance and colour of the occasion,” the statement added.

Kaura concluded, “The inauguration of the NUJ Kano State Council Executives is seen as a pivotal moment for the Union, with expectations high for the new leadership to uphold the values of dedication and integrity while working towards the Union’s growth and the betterment of its members.”

By Umar Umar Namadi

The Scoop Storytelling Initiative recently held a two-day workshop for journalists at Ventures Park, Maitama, in Abuja. The workshop focused on the art of inclusive storytelling, particularly for underrepresented and marginalised communities. 

In her opening remarks, Zainab Bala, the founder and Executive Director of the Scoop Storytelling Initiative, shared the personal motivations that fueled her journey to becoming a distinguished storyteller. Her passion for amplifying the voices of marginalised individuals led to the creation of this nonprofit initiative, which seeks to give a platform to those whose stories often go unheard.

The workshop aimed to inspire participants to craft stories that resonate with readers, drive meaningful change, and influence policies. 

The sessions were rigorous and diverse, covering key topics such as solution-oriented storytelling, data representation in journalism, language sensitivity, multimedia storytelling, conflict reporting, cultural competency, and intersectionality in storytelling. 

Zainab Bala herself, along with other experts, led these sessions, which provided participants with a comprehensive toolkit, instilling in them the confidence to engage with and impact their communities through their work.

After the workshop, participants were awarded certificates in recognition of their commitment to elevating the voices of the marginalised through impactful storytelling. 

Through this initiative, the Scoop Storytelling Initiative continues its mission of empowering journalists to tell stories that matter—stories that reflect the complexities of the human experience and inspire actions.

By Anas Abbas

Dr Bala Muhammad, a veteran journalist and university lecturer, has called the attention of social media users to be media literate and responsible for enhancing societal cohesion

He made this call in an exclusive interview with the Department of Information and Media Studies at Bayero University, Kano. Muhammad emphasized the importance of media literacy and responsible social media usage to foster societal cohesion.

He further described social media as a “double-edged sword” for citizen journalists, noting that while it provides a platform for self-expression, it also enables individuals to become unregulated broadcasters and editors.

Muhammad urged the government to establish a social media regulatory body to mitigate the risks associated with social media, including hate speech, social disharmony, and potential anarchy. This entity would promote ethical, social media practices and ensure users understand their responsibilities.

Dr Muhammad’s call to action underscores the need for collective effort in harnessing the power of social media to promote harmony and responsible communication.

By Ahmed Abdulkadir

This post is meant to advise or guide young social media enthusiasts on how to go about becoming journalists. It’s obvious that these days young chaps who have access to smart phones and data have become overnight journalists without a clue on how to go about it.

It’s a pleasure to talk about the exciting and impactful journey of becoming a journalist in Nigeria. As young social media enthusiasts interested in journalism, you have already taken the first step towards an incredibly rewarding and influential career. Nigeria, with its rich history and diverse cultural landscape, provides a unique and dynamic environment for aspiring journalists.

Today, I want to share with you some key insights and steps that can help you as you navigate the path to becoming a journalist in this wonderful country.

First and foremost, let me take you through my personal journey of how I stumbled upon journalism. Believe it or not, I did not set out to become a journalist. In fact, I had no clue what journalism entailed. I began my professional life as a teacher, specifically an English Language and Literature teacher in a secondary school.

However, my background in English language studies inadvertently propelled me towards this noble profession. Moreover, I had a deep passion for writing. Ultimately, that is the crux of the matter – having an unwavering passion for the profession.

Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean that you have to study English or journalism to become a journalist. You can pursue this career regardless of your field of study. English, journalism, mass communication, or related courses merely serve as guiding principles towards realizing your dream. I know numerous outstanding journalists in Nigeria who did not pursue any of the aforementioned courses, yet they excelled in their journalistic endeavours.

Take, for instance, the former Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, who initially studied accounting but later became an exceptional journalist. Another example is Dr. Mansur Liman, the former Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, who studied Chemistry up to the Ph.D. level but embarked on a successful career as an international journalist, starting at the BBC in London. Come to think of it, Abdalla Uba Adamu, a professor of science education at Bayero University, Kano, made a career switch to media studies and became a Professor of Media and Cultural Studies, thus becoming the first dual professor in Nigeria! There are countless such examples.

The examples mentioned above demonstrate Farooq Kperogi’s assertion that “anyone can be a journalist even if they didn’t formally study journalism or mass communication.” Kperogi, a Professor of Journalism and Emerging Media at Kennesaw State University in the USA, discussed the definition of a journalist and the nature of journalism in an article titled “What Critics of Rufai Oseni Don’t Know About Journalism,” which was published in the Nigerian Tribune newspaper on November 4, 2023. In the article, he defended Rufai Oseni, a well-known Arise TV anchor who faced criticism for practicing journalism without a background in journalism or mass communication.

So, when I grew tired of teaching and found myself searching for any kind of job, destiny smiled upon me when I was fortunate enough to be employed at Katsina State Television (KTTV). That was where I cut my teeth in journalism. And eventually, I climbed the ladder to become the General Manager of the station, twenty years ago, reaching the pinnacle of my journalistic career. Having achieved that feat, I transitioned into the regulatory aspect of journalism by joining the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in Abuja. The NBC, a federal government organization, oversees the work of the broadcast media, especially radio and television. There, too, I reached the pinnacle and retired as a Director!

To take you through the steps that can help you as you navigate the path to becoming a journalist, first and foremost, embrace the power of storytelling and the impact it has on shaping public opinion and discourse. Journalism is not just about reporting facts; it’s about capturing the essence of a story, uncovering hidden truths, and giving a voice to those who may not have one. As you develop your skills as a journalist, remember that your mission is to inform, educate, and inspire your audience through the compelling stories you tell. Let your passion for storytelling be the driving force behind your pursuit of a career in journalism.

In Nigeria, as in many other countries, the field of journalism is constantly evolving due to rapid advancements in technology and changes in the media landscape. As aspiring journalists, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, tools, and platforms that are shaping the industry. Embrace new technologies, social media, and digital storytelling techniques to enhance your journalistic skills and reach a wider audience. The ability to adapt and evolve with the changing media landscape is key to success in the field of journalism.

Furthermore, seek out opportunities to gain practical experience and expand your network within the journalism community. Being on the social media platform is a great start, as it allows you to collaborate with like-minded individuals who share your passion for journalism. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, and workshops that can provide hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned journalists. Building strong relationships within the journalism community can open doors to new opportunities and help you gain valuable insights and guidance as you progress in your career.

In addition to honing your skills and building relationships, it’s essential to cultivate a deep understanding of the ethical considerations and responsibilities that come with being a journalist. In a country as diverse as Nigeria, where complex social and political issues abound, it’s crucial for journalists to uphold high ethical standards, maintain objectivity, and strive for accurate and balanced reporting. As aspiring journalists, you have the power to influence public opinion and shape narratives, so use that power responsibly and with integrity.

As you embark on this journey, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that may come your way. Journalism can be a demanding and often unpredictable career, requiring resilience, determination, and the ability to work under pressure. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning, and always stay true to your passion for storytelling and the pursuit of truth. Remember, adversity can often be the catalyst for your greatest achievements.

Lastly, never underestimate the impact you can have as a journalist in Nigeria. Your work has the potential to spark important conversations, hold those in power accountable, and bring about positive change in your communities and beyond. Whether you choose to focus on investigative reporting, human interest stories, or political journalism, your contribution to the media landscape can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

In conclusion, the journey to becoming a journalist in Nigeria is a noble and rewarding pursuit. It’s a journey filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive impact through the stories you tell. Embrace the power of storytelling, stay adaptable and open to change, seek out practical experience and mentorship, uphold high ethical standards, and always remember the tremendous influence you can have as a journalist in Nigeria. I encourage each of you to stay dedicated to your passion for journalism, be relentless in your pursuit of truth, and never lose sight of the incredible impact you can have on the world around you.

I have every confidence that each of you has the potential to become a force for good in the field of journalism, and I eagerly anticipate the inspiring stories you will share with the world.

Thank you for the opportunity to share this moment with you, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors as budding journalists in Nigeria.

Ahmed Abdulkadir is a former director at the National Broadcasting Commission and can be reached via ahmadakadir@yahoo.com

By Jemimah Shuna Dogo

Data journalism has emerged as a powerful tool, allowing journalists to delve deeper into complex issues and present information in a compelling and accessible manner. However, data journalism faces numerous challenges in Nigeria that hinder its full potential. This article aims to shed light on some of these challenges and explore potential solutions to enhance the practice of data journalism in the Nigerian context.

The first challenge is that of limited Access to Reliable Data. The lack of credible and current data is one of the biggest problems data journalism in Nigeria faces. Government institutions and agencies frequently lack transparency and may suppress information that would interest the general public. Obtaining accurate and thorough data, essential for fact-checking and creating data-driven stories, is difficult for journalists. Journalists find it challenging to offer unbiased analysis and hold public officials accountable without trustworthy information. To curb this challenge, it is essential to promote open data laws. This can be achieved through advocacy and campaign. The government should encourage openness and give the general public and media easy access to data.

Secondly, the lack of data literacy among journalists is a setback. A unique skill set that combines conventional reporting with data analysis and visualisation is needed for data journalism. To properly deal with data, however, many journalists in Nigeria lack the requisite data literacy abilities. Because of this knowledge gap, fewer journalists can use data-driven methodologies in their reporting, leading to a dearth of data-driven stories. Training and capacity building is the answer to this challenge to be tackled. Media institutions, NGOs, and international organisations can work together to provide workshops, seminars, and online courses that give journalists the skills they need to gather, analyse, and visualise data properly.

Another obstacle that hinders the practice of data journalism in Nigeria is a lack of adequate technological infrastructure for journalists using data; issues including limited internet connectivity, erratic power, and obsolete devices and software present serious difficulties. These challenges limit the potential for data-driven journalism in the nation by impeding data collection, analysis, and distribution. Overcoming this obstacle involves Infrastructure development. Stakeholders in Nigeria’s media sector should give infrastructure improvements a top priority. Collaborations between media outlets, IT firms, and governmental organisations can help find long-term solutions to these infrastructure problems.

Furthermore, security and safety issues obstruct the practice of data Journalism. When reporting on corruption and other pressing societal issues or conducting sensitive investigations, journalists in Nigeria frequently worry about their safety and security. These hazards can increase when using data journalism, which may involve disclosing untruths. Data journalism is discouraged by threats, intimidation, and attacks on journalists, which also restrict press freedom and the public’s right to information. Strengthening press freedom is vital to ensuring that journalists can work without fear of retaliation. Government institutions, civil society organisations, and international organisations need to collaborate.

Finally, lack of locally-bred Journalism models. Scholars believe that If journalism adheres to the Western model’s principles, it will be unable to fulfil its mandate to contribute to “new knowledge”. In this context, “new knowledge” may refer to understanding rules and traditions that are particular to each culture. Therefore, a model that best fits regional circumstances is required. To conclude, data journalism holds immense potential for enhancing transparency, accountability, and public engagement in Nigeria.

Jemimah Shuna Dogo can be contacted via Jemimah.dogo@kasu.edu.ng.