Trends in the Nigerian Press since 1914: Contributions, Challenges and the way Forward
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Date
2014
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Lapai Journal of Humanities
Abstract
The paper looks at the growth and development of Nigerian press as it inspired and ignited the freedom struggle from British rule before, during and after 1914. After the advent of independence, it also inspired and has continued to coax the citizens to come out and vote for the successive democratic governments, hold government accountable to her actions and inactions as well as inform and educate Nigerians on burning issues. But the Nigerian press is not always attached with the great words of patriotism or service. It is confronted with several challenges/ limitations which make news coverage and presentation of news to become either sensationalized or commercialized. This has made the Nigerian Press to slowly slide from its social accountability role by giving abnormal coverage to abnormal events and issues. The paper recommends among other things that press should meticulously and dispassionately involve in reporting issues as they emanate. The media professionals should consider this situation in all seriousness and social accountability in the larger interest of Nigeria rather than individuals or groups.
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Keywords
press, military dictatorship, democracy, social responsibility, journalist