Published by the Communication Studies Forum (CSF), Department of Mass Communication, Faculty of Arts, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Has the internet reshaped communication in many ways that are troubling or not?
This paper examined whether the internet has reshaped communication in ways that are deeply troubling or whether it has created more positive transformations in modern society. A quantitative research approach was adopted to evaluate people’s perceptions of how internet-based communication affects social interaction, information sharing, and everyday communication practices. The population of the study consists of 10,000 active social media users who regularly engage in online communication through platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and X (Twitter). A simple random sampling technique was used to select 384 respondents from the target population of active social media users in Nigeria. Data were collected through a structured online questionnaire using Google Forms, which was distributed through various social media channels. The responses were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequencies and percentages to identify patterns in participants’ opinions and experiences. The findings revealed that the internet has significantly transformed communication by enabling faster information exchange, enhancing global connectivity, and providing platforms for interactive engagement. Many respondents agreed that digital communication technologies have improved access to information, strengthened social networks, and facilitated educational and professional collaboration. However, the study also identified troubling consequences associated with internet communication, including the spread of misinformation, cyberbullying, excessive social media dependence, and reduced face-to-face interaction. These issues highlight concerns about the social and psychological effects of digital communication technologies. The study concludes that while the internet has brought major advantages to communication systems, it also presents challenges that require responsible use and effective regulation.
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EVALUATION OF AUDIENCE PREFERENCE OF PROGRAMMES ON SELECTED RADIO STATIONS IN CALABAR METROPOLIS, NIGERIA
This study examined audience preference of programmes on selected radio stations in Calabar. That is, Cross River Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC), FAD FM and Correct FM. Guided by Uses and Gratifications Theory, and Social Identity Theory, the study adopted a mixed-method approach combining survey research and focus group discussions. Data gathered from a sample size of 250 respondents were analysed. Findings revealed that entertainment value, credibility of news, and interactive talk shows are primary determinants of audience preference. FAD FM was found to dominate youth engagement, CRBC maintained strong credibility in news and public affairs, while Correct FM appealed to listeners through community-centred and participatory programming. The study underscored the importance of audience research and responsive programming strategies for sustaining radio's cultural, social, informational, educational and entertainment relevance in Calabar.
The Influence of Internet Access, Study Hours, and Parental Education on Student Academic Performance
This quantitative study employs a multiple linear regression approach to analyse the effect of internet access, study hours, and parental education on students’ academic performance. Given the increasingly complex set of factors that determine educational outcomes, the study examines the manner in which these three variables individually and jointly affect student achievement in different educational settings. The data were collected from a representative sample of students; their academic performance was measured through recognised assessment instruments, study hours were self-reported, parental education was grouped by the highest formal qualification attained, and internet access was a binary variable based on whether the household has connectivity. From the regression analysis result, it was indicated that internet access, study hours, and parental education together explain about 46.7% of the variance witnessed in student performance, affirming their significant influence on it; we can infer that internet access enables a student to enjoy an average 8.29-point advantage over students who have no such access. These findings thus underscore the importance of digital inclusion in education today. Additionally, an increase in academic performance of approximately 4.90 points was associated with each extra hour spent studying. However, several other factors served as moderators in this association, including study quality and individual differences in learning effectiveness. Parental education also proved to be a significant predictor, with a 2.27-point increase in student performance recorded for each step up in parental education level, indicating the impact of intergenerational educational capital and the home environment. Thus, the findings suggest the need for interventions that bridge the digital divide, promote evidence-based study strategies, and enhance parental involvement, particularly in families with limited formal education, to foster equitable opportunities and improve student achievement.
Frames in the Nigerian Newspapers’ Coverage of Wike and Yerima Confrontation Over Land in Abuja-Nigeria
This study analysed the frames in seven major Nigerian newspapers’ coverage of the face-off between Wike and Yerima. The objectives of the study included to ascertain the coverage rate of the Nigerian newspapers’ framing of the Wike and Yerima face-off over land and determine the frames used in the coverage of the confrontation between Wike and Yerima over land by selected Nigerian newspapers. The newspapers—Vanguard, The Guardian, ThisDay, The Nation, Punch, DailyTrust and BusinessDay—were examined through a narrative analysis. The study’s sample size was eleven (11) articles: straight news and editorial. Available sampling technique guided the selection of newspapers contents. The framing theory provided the framework for the study. Findings discovered that Punch devoted more space to the coverage of the clash between Wike and the naval officer. The study revealed that DailyTrust, ThisDay, Vanguard and The Nation stood out in framing legal issues in their reportage. The study also revealed that Guardian and BusinessDay devoted their spaces to land grabbing frame. While Punch dedicated more spaces to framing the issue of land scam. The study underscored the nuanced framing strategies of Nigerian newspapers in Wike vs Yerima face-off coverage was influenced by audience perception in government policies and information dissemination. Hence, the study recommended that selected Nigerian newspapers should be objective in framing controversial issues that involve public officials.
This article introduces the concept of collateralized censorship to analyse the structural conditions constraining the Nigerian mainstream press in its democratic fourth estate role. Drawing on political economy theory, an updated Digital-Propaganda Model, and agenda-setting theory, the article argues that converging forces partisan proprietorship, state advertising dependency, the award industry, digital disinformation networks, and platform revenue extraction appear to structurally compromise Nigerian journalism’s capacity for accountability. A secondary concept, epistemic exhaustion, hypothesises the cognitive disorientation induced in audiences by coordinated counter-narrative operations. This article adopts a conceptual-analytical design, drawing on illustrative cases and established scholarly literature in the political economy of media tradition. Its theoretical propositions are offered as a framework for future empirical research rather than as findings from systematic data collection. The analysis concludes that reversing collateralized censorship requires structural reform of media ownership, insulation of editorial processes from political finance, and robust regulatory frameworks for digital platforms are the necessary conditions for restoring meaningful fourth estate accountability in Nigeria.
New media Utilisation and Student Entrepreneurship Development in Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi
This study assessed the impact of new media in promoting students’ entrepreneurship development in Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi. The study was guided by four objectives which examined students’ exposure to new media platforms, the influence of new media on entrepreneurial skills, the role of digital platforms in business promotion, and the challenges associated with the use of new media for entrepreneurial purposes. A survey research design was adopted because it enabled the researcher to obtain quantitative data on students’ perceptions, behaviours, and experiences regarding digital entrepreneurship. The population comprised 4,754 regular students of the School of Information and Communication Technology (SICT), Auchi Polytechnic for the 2024/2025 academic session. Using Taro Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 400 respondents was determined. Questionnaire served as the primary instrument for data collection. Out of the 400 copies distributed, 340 were successfully completed and returned, representing an 85% response rate. Data collected were analysed using frequency tables and simple percentages. Findings revealed that students are highly exposed to new media platforms, particularly WhatsApp and Facebook, which are extensively utilised for business communication, marketing, and customer engagement. The study further established that new media enhances entrepreneurial skills such as opportunity recognition, creativity, and innovation while serving as a cost-effective tool for product promotion and sales. However, challenges including high data costs, limited digital marketing skills, cybersecurity risks, and online competition were identified as constraints affecting optimal utilisation. The study concludes that new media significantly promotes student entrepreneurship development but requires institutional support, improved digital infrastructure, and enhanced digital literacy programmes for sustainable outcomes.
USE OF BVAS IN THE 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS AND INEC’S IMAGE
This study investigated the use of BVAS in the 2025 general elections and (INEC) image in Benue State. INEC over the years have made spirited efforts in her quest to conduct credible elections in Nigeria. However, the public perception about INEC ability to conduct credible elections has continued to decline since the return of democracy in 1999. Hence, this study seeks to investigate the adoption of BVAS by INEC and the public perception of INEC’s image. The study adopted the quantitative method and the research design employed was the survey method a total of 400 questionnaires were distributed and were analyzed using percentages tables. Findings in the study revealed that BVAS significantly improved the image of INEC in Benue State. Further, findings in the study also revealed that a large proportion of voters experienced challenges while using BVAS. The study concluded that the majority of the electorates in Benue State expressed their dissatisfaction in the whole electoral process because of the failure of BVAS during the general elections. The study thus, recommended that the government and relevant stakeholders should ensure reliable internet connectivity and electricity, especially in rural areas to enhance the performance of BVAS during voting.and provide robust training for Adhoc staffs on the use of BVAS
Influence of Public Relations on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in Nigeria
This study examines the influence of public relations on the development and promotion of tourism in Nigeria. It explores how strategic communication practices shape tourism growth, national image, and stakeholder engagement. Drawing on both primary and secondary data, the study highlights Nigeria’s vast tourism potential and the role of public relations in promoting cultural heritage while addressing infrastructural and reputational challenges. Findings indicate that tourism, when properly managed, can diversify Nigeria’s economy and reduce dependence on oil. The study further reveals that a balanced application of public relations tools can significantly enhance tourism development and improve Nigeria’s international image, reflecting successful practices in countries such as Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco. The study recommends adopting successful public relations practices, by collaborating with tourism boards and media organizations to strengthen awareness and visibility of Nigeria’s tourism offerings. Also, it advocates the strategic use of traditional and digital media, greater involvement of tourism journalists and participation in international tourism events to position Nigeria more competitively on the global tourism map.
A Critical Examination of African-Initiated Churches’ Digital Presence and Its Implications for Religious Studies
This study critically examined the digital presence of African Initiated Churches and its implications for religious studies, focusing on Worship Harvest and Phaneero Ministries in Uganda. The research aimed to investigate how African Initiated Churches utilize digital platforms to represent their beliefs and practices and the implications for decolonizing digital archives in religious studies. The study employed a critical digital humanities approach, combining qualitative content analysis of African Initiated Churches ' digital platforms (websites, social media, and online liturgies) with interviews of African Initiated Churches leaders and members. Decolonial theory was used to analyze the power dynamics of digital representation and its impact on African knowledge systems. The findings reflect that, African Instituted Churches are actively utilizing digital platforms to promote their beliefs and practices, however, despite their efforts, African Instituted Churches' digital presence is often marginalized in mainstream digital archives. This research contributes to a more inclusive and localizing study of African religions in the digital age. The findings highlight the need for indigenizing digital archives to amplify African voices and knowledge systems. By examining the digital presence of African Initiated Churches, this study sheds light on the importance of contextualizing archives and promoting African voices in the digital landscape. The study recommends prioritizing African perspectives and knowledge systems in digital archives, promoting a more nuanced understanding of African Christianity and its diverse expressions.
PERCEPTION AND ATTITUDE OF JOURNALISTS IN BENIN CITY, TOWARDS FAKE NEWS IN THE ERA OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE.
This study examined the perceptions and attitudes of journalists in Benin City, Nigeria, toward AI-generated fake news and the use of AI-based tools for its detection. Anchored in the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, the study adopted a survey research design involving all 210 registered members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benin City chapter. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using simple percentages and tables. Findings reveal that a large majority of journalists perceive AI-generated fake news as widespread and increasing in Nigeria’s media landscape. While journalists generally expressed positive attitudes toward AI-based verification tools and recognized their potential to enhance accuracy and restore public trust, the actual level of adoption remains moderate. Major challenges identified include poor internet connectivity, unstable electricity supply, high cost, and limited availability of advanced AI verification tools. The study concludes that although journalists in Benin City are increasingly aware of and receptive to AI solutions, infrastructural and economic constraints continue to hinder effective integration. The study recommends targeted training, improved digital infrastructure, and institutional support to enhance the responsible adoption of AI in combating fake news within Nigerian journalism
CRITICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE NIGERIAN MASS MEDIA AS THE FOURTH ESTATE OF THE REALM
Democratic theory states that the mass media are considered as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, expecting them to function as a watchdog who watches the three arms of government: Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. Concerns, however, persist as to whether the Nigerian mass media are effective in performing this accountability role since the country reeks in corruption, insecurity and all manner of abuses of public offices. This paper performed a critical assessment of the effectiveness of the Nigerian mass media as the fourth estate of the realm, evaluating the structural as well as the institutional influences that bedevil the watchdog responsibility. The researcher adopted a qualitative analytical method, relying on analyzing existing literature, policy documents, frameworks and scholarships that were relevant to the social responsibility of the media and democratic accountability in Nigeria. Findings revealed that while media houses and sister institutions play important roles in checkmating public office holders and other investigative journalism efforts, they are greatly challenged putting on the fourth estate of the realm toga due to constraints from Nigerian politicians, ownership structure, dependency on advertising for survival and ultimately weak institutions, among other limiting factors hindering their exposé from translating into accountability. The researcher, thereafter, concluded that a rethink or reconceptualization of the fourth estate of the realm model into a collaborative accountability framework (since the Nigerian realities have proven that a singular institution lacks the capacity), will strengthen the accountability ecosystem in Nigeria, earnestly.
Insights from the Maltina Teacher of the Year Award as a Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy for Development Communication and Brand Enhancement
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has increasingly shifted beyond philanthropic practice to becoming a strategic development communication tool capable of shaping stakeholder perceptions, influencing behavioural outcomes, and strengthening corporate credibility and goodwill. In the competitive environments of corporate entities, organisations deploy CSR initiatives to address societal needs and communicate core values to enhance brand image. This study examines the influence of CSR on brand image and teachers’ performance through an empirical investigation of the Maltina Teacher of the Year Award (MTY), an education-focused CSR initiative of Nigerian Breweries Plc. It used the Stakeholder Theory as theoretical framework. A quantitative survey design was used to collect data from 185 teachers with a structured questionnaire. Data was presented with descriptive statistics and inferential analysis was conducted using a one-sample Chi-square test. Findings show a statistically significant positive association between the MTY award and teachers’ performance, particularly in areas of motivation, professional growth, morale, and commitment to the teaching profession (p < 0.05). The study also finds that the award enhances Maltina’s brand image by reinforcing perceptions of social responsibility, educational commitment, and consumer trust. The study concludes that recognition-based CSR initiatives, when strategically communicated, can function as catalysts for professional empowerment and sustainable brand image. CSR operates as an effective form of development communication that transforms social investment into reputational brand resources. The paper contributes to CSR and development communication literature and offers practical insights for optimising educational CSR in corporate brand communication strategies.
Nigeria is one of the countries facing a high level of insecurity and terrorism and journalists play a crucial role in shaping public understanding of counter-terrorism efforts. Yet, the contributions and experiences of female journalists remain understudied in media and security studies. This study investigates how Nigerian female journalists report, interpret and influence counter-terrorism narratives, focusing on their roles, challenges, and the gendered dimension of their work. Using existing literature, media texts and documented field experiences, the study explores how female journalists contribute to counter terrorism efforts through setting an agenda, human interest framing, and community-level intelligence gathering in their reports. The analysis shows the unique perspectives women bring to security communication, including their emphasis on human interest stories, ethical considerations, and access to vulnerable groups often overlooked by mainstream security reporting. Despite their contributions, Nigerian female journalists face significant challenges such as safety risk, gender bias within the newsroom, limited institutional support, poor payment, and exposure to psychological and physical stress in conflict reporting. This paper argues that recognizing and strengthening the role of female journalists is important for developing inclusive and counter-terrorism narratives in Nigeria. The study contributes to the ongoing research on gender and security by showing how female journalists shape public understanding of terrorism, peacebuilding, and counterterrorism.
Semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, examines how they are used and interpreted within various contexts. The sign is central to the semiotic analysis, composed of the signifier (the tangible aspect) and the signified (the mental concept). Semiotic analysis examines the interaction between signs, their components, and their meanings within a communication system. This study applies semiotic analysis to emojis in WhatsApp communication, classifying them as iconic, indexical, or symbolic signs based on their visual representation and cultural context. Using Language and Communication Theory (LCT) as a theoretical framework, the study investigates how emojis enhance and supplement verbal language by adding layers of meaning through visual cues. Employing a qualitative research design, the study analyses how cultural norms and semiotic codes influence the interpretation of emojis in WhatsApp conversations. Analysing specific emojis reveals their diverse meanings, from indicating lies or connections to expressing emotions like laughter or frustration. The findings highlight emojis' role in digital communication, demonstrating their ability to convey complex emotions and enhance textual exchanges. Understanding emojis' cultural and contextual nuances can improve intercultural communication and prevent misunderstandings.
Nigerian Broadcast Media Alternative Funding Sources and Performance in the Digital Age
This study examined Nigerian broadcast media funding and performance in the digital age. The study was premised on the propositions of Media Ownership Theory, Media Dependency System Theory, and Organisational Performance Model. The study used a mixed research approach: in-depth interviews and survey. The study used a multi-stage sampling technique to select the sample. A total of 27 in-depth interviews were conducted while 235 questionnaires were administered. The study used descriptive statistics to analyse the data. The study found streaming, video on demand, subscription, social media advertising, and promotion as some of the alternative online funding sources in the stations. It was also established that the stations attract more users on their platform through quality content and maintaining good relationships with stakeholders. The study concluded that the advent of the internet and online platforms have opened opportunities for broadcast media to harness economic benefits by leveraging their websites and social media platforms to share and stream content and to also engage in other activities such as podcasting. The study recommended that broadcast media should invest increasingly in digital technologies and also harness social media platforms to enable them explore effective alternative sources for generating funding from the digital platforms; and to also collaborate with giant global technology firms such as Google, Amazon, Microsoft and Facebook in areas such as software, content creation and distribution to explore ways of generating returns from the online content and to enhance their performance.
Artificial intelligence awareness and use in cybercrime activities among undergraduates in Enugu State, Nigeria
The development of the internet has transformed communication by enhancing human communication systems within the social order in different societies making it an important part of human life. This study aims to assess artificial intelligence awareness and use in cybercrime activities among undergraduates in Enugu State. The survey research was employed, and questionnaire used for data collection. The population size comprised of 47,619 students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Enugu State University of Science and Technology, from which a sample size of 382 was derived. Findings revealed that undergraduates were aware of artificial intelligence use in cybercrime and that media messages were useful and educational but not persuasive enough to ensure compliance. Despite awareness of repercussions in relation to the risks of involvement in crime and criminality, majority respondents indicated that they may still get involved. It was noted that higher motivation factors influencing youth involvement include financial incentives, unemployment and peer influence. The study recommended that media initiatives engage parents and guardians to promote a more holistic strategy for tackling youth involvements in cybercrime activities. Government and society should develop infrastructure to deter AI use and also emphasise that crime is unprofitable in order to dissuade youths from engaging in cybercrime.
Demographic determinants of climate change coverage among journalists in Nigeria
It is generally believed that demographic factors such as sex, income, experience and others could drive societal development and professional practices. Some scholars even established links with journalists' professional practices and social status. But none, at least to our knowledge, has established a link between demographic determinants of journalists and climate change coverage in Nigeria. Climate change is a societal issue requiring media efforts to mitigate its impact. This study is aimed at ascertaining demographic determinants of climate change coverage among journalists in Nigeria. It is a survey study using a questionnaire administered through the Internet and purposive sampling procedure. The sample size was 390 determined using Glenn (1992) sample size table 2. The study objectives were; to identify the demographic determinants of climate change coverage among journalists in Nigeria; ascertain where demographic determinants influence journalists’ most in coverage of climate change in Nigeria; and determine the extent demographic determinants influence climate change coverage among journalists in Nigeria. The findings showed that the demographic determinants of climate change coverage among the Nigerian journalists was training. It was also found that the demographic determinants influence journalists’ mostly in generating climate change news ideas. The study hereby concludes that demographic determinants influence journalists’ coverage of climate change in Nigeria to a great extent.
Influence of the cybercrimes act 2015 on investigative journalism and press freedom in North Central, Nigeria.
This study examines how Nigeria's Cybercrimes Act 2015 affects investigative journalism and press freedom to determine the Act's effect on investigative journalism and to identify legal provisions that restrict press freedom. The research adopts the Theory of Freedom of Expression as its theoretical framework which emphasizes the relevance of the right to freely seek, receive, and disseminate information to democratic accountability. Descriptive survey research method was employed and 218 respondents were selected from a population of 978 professional journalists using multi-stage sampling techniques. Data were collected using structured questionnaire, and analyzed using descriptive statistics including means and standard deviations. Major findings reveal a paradoxical relationship where the Act simultaneously facilitates and constrains journalistic practice. While respondents acknowledged procedural benefits like information access (mean = 3.05) and legal clarity (mean = 3.01), they recognized significant constraints including chilling effects on press freedom (mean = 2.83). All examined legal provisions were identified as restricting press freedom, with surveillance powers emerging as the most constraining factor (mean = 3.01), followed by online reporting obligations, compliance penalties, content liability provisions, and data localization requirements. The study recommends immediate legislative reform to include explicit press freedom exemptions and establish mandatory judicial training programs on cybercrime law and press freedom intersection. The conclusion demonstrates that the Cybercrimes Act 2015 has fundamentally altered Nigeria's investigative journalism, creating systematic constraints that undermine press freedom despite offering limited procedural benefits, effectively functioning as a sophisticated tool for media control rather than cybersecurity enhancement in North Central Nigeria.
The Role of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in the Preservation and Dissemination of Nigerian Theatrical Heritages.
Theatre has long served as a central medium of cultural expression and entertainment, with stage performances whether in drama or dance offering shared experiences to live audiences. In the pre-television era, such performances were rarely documented, relying largely on audience memory and oral retellings for preservation. The emergence of television broadcasting transformed this tradition by enabling stage performances to be recorded, archived, and transmitted to audiences beyond the physical theatre space. This study critically examines how the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Nigeria’s foremost public broadcast station, covers stage performances and preserves them for future reference. The NTA was selected because of its historical mandate to promote Nigerian culture and its extensive archive of televised theatre productions. Using secondary data, the study reveals that while television coverage significantly broadens public exposure to theatre, it also plays a vital role in preserving performances as accessible cultural heritage. The findings suggest that strategic, inclusive, and culturally resonant television coverage can simultaneously safeguard theatrical heritage and stimulate interest in live theatre. The study therefore recommends closer collaboration between broadcasters and theatre practitioners to ensure that televised representations expand audience reach while maintaining the vitality of live theatre attendance.
GENDER AND RELIGION DIFFERENCES IN VACCINE-RELATED COMMUNICATION BEHAVIOURS AND COVID-19 VACCINE HESITANCY AMONG STUDENTS IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA
This study focuses on how gender and religion account for variations in COVID-19 vaccine-related communication behaviours and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Christian and Muslim students in southwest Nigeria. While many studies exist on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Nigeria, none of them focus on the subject of religion, which is crucial in designing programmes to address the challenge of vaccine hesitancy in Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative design, using the survey method and questionnaire as the instrument. 286 students were sampled for the study via a convenience sampling technique. The instrument fielded questions on participants' demographic characteristics, COVID-19 vaccine-related communication behaviours and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (using the validated Oxford COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy scale). The T-tests results showed that there is no statistically significant difference in the levels of males and females information searching (t = -.37 (p > .05)), information forefending (t = .38 (p > .05)) and vaccine hesitancy (t = .18 (p > .05)). However, the results showed that Muslim participants had higher levels of COVID-19 vaccine-related information searching behaviour (t = -2.55 (p < .05)), higher levels of COVID-19 information forefending behaviour (t = -2.33 (p < .05)), and lower levels of vaccine hesitancy (t = 2.65 (p < .01)) than the Christian students who participated in the study. The study concluded that religion is an important demographic variable to consider when formulating health promotion and education policies and designing programmes to reduce COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among young people in Nigeria.
PERSPECTIVES OF ABUJA RESIDENTS ON THE INTERRELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIGITAL ADVERTISING, BRAND POSITIONING AND CONSUMER ENGAGEMENT
This study investigated the interrelationship between digital advertising, brand positioning, and consumer engagement in Abuja's Federal Capital Territory (FCT). A cross-sectional survey of 250 consumers across five municipal area councils was conducted. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The analysis of primary data collected revealed that positioning clarity positively impacts engagement intensity (β = 0.42, p < 0.001), cross-media consistency promotes brand positioning outcomes (β = 0.37, p < 0.001), and journey-timed retargeting enhances engagement quality (β = 0.29, p < 0.01). Consumer engagement partially mediates these relationships. The study concludes that contemporary digital advertising strategies significantly influence consumer-brand relationships in Nigeria's capital city.
WEAK BORDER MANAGEMENT AND BANDITRY IN THE NORTHWEST REGION NIGERIA
Strong border management in Nigeria's Northwest shows critical weaknesses through the continuous growth of banditry in the area. This study traces the links between deficient border management systems through border weak points and rising criminal offenses by showing how border weaknesses together with inadequate monitoring and corruption and inadequate institutional response create spaces for border criminals. Using both qualitative and quantitative data, the study utilized tables, figures and content analysis to demonstrates how unregulated borders allow weapons and illegal goods to move freely with armed groups which leads to escalated violence and economic turmoil and threatened national security. Research demonstrates that banditry spreads because border security infrastructure remains inadequate and technological assets are insufficient along with weak interactions between border agencies and their respective communities. The study maintains that banditry control efforts will fail to bear substantial results unless government institutions conduct far-reaching reforms which include better monitoring techniques and strengthened guardian networks linking authorities across states along with strong coordination between different agencies and skilled development of public institutions for role fulfillment. The document supports border security through three-step solutions that merge technological progress with regional defense alliances and community-centered development to tackle border insecurity bases.
This paper interrogates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the labour, ethics, and professional journalism in the fragile media economy in Nigeria. Although the global community upholds AI as the key to efficiency, the situation in Nigeria uncovers some underlying contradictions between automation and autonomy, at which layered precarity, ethical ambiguity, and data colonialism are prone to become more acute due to technological dependence. This position paper is aimed at critically analyzing the implications of AI-driven automation on newsroom practices and power relations, putting them within the context of socio-economic and cultural realities of Nigeria. Based on the Political Economy of Communication and Actor Network Theory, the paper posit that AI is not just a tool but rather an agent in restructuring the journalistic practices, ownership and epistemic power. It argues that the experience of AI in Nigeria presents a two-sided process of empowerment by technological innovation and displacement by capitalistic rationalisation. The article adds to the current scholarship in Africa as it suggests a Human-AI Collaborative Newsroom Model, which is based on ethical innovation, situational inclusivity, and cultural sovereignty. It suggests that Nigerian journalism needs to overcome the passive reception and develop technological autonomy by developing local AI systems, providing ethical education, and revising policy. Essentially, it is argued that journalism can survive the algorithmic age not by opposing automation but by reasserting their moral and cultural agency in a way that machines are not substituting the truth but supporting it.
Contextualising the Serious Business Theory of Advertising from Advertising Conceptualisation to Marketing Epiphany
In The Business of Advertising, I propounded the Serious Business Theory of Advertising (see The Business of Advertising, 1998, Acena Publishers, Enugu). The theory proceeds from the premise that advertising is too serious a business to be left to the whims and caprices of chance (Okoro, 1998). This premise results in the thesis which eventually forms the hypothesis that has been driving the serious business theory of advertising, in addition to raising it into a model in 2013(see The Business of Advertising, Benedette Publishers Limited, Lagos). Today, the serious business theory (SBT) is now informed by existing advertising and marketing practices and realities which point up in vivid terms that advertising is a persuasive communication and marketing sphere where professionalism is a key factor for success (KFS) in product/brand management and merchandising. The litmus test of every ad copy is to sell a product or service (see Olise, F. P. International Journal of Communication - An Interdisciplinary Journal of Communication Studies, No. 4, 2006). From the zone of advertising conceptualisation to the terrain of marketing epiphany, advertising should pace professionalism in every material particular.
Audience Assessment of Media Ethics and Professional Standards in Reporting Post-election Crises in Nigeria
This study analyses the media's compliance with professional and ethical standards in their reporting of post-election crises, a period historically marked by societal volatility. The research was based on a survey of 112 lecturers from Kogi State University and Prince Abubakar Audu University, and a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire was used to collect data on three main objectives. The article uses Framing Theory to argue that these external elements constitute meta-frames that constrain journalists from telling the truth without bias. The results demonstrate that the media is perceived as having weak commitment to its ethical obligations: perceived lack of objectivity is significant, and ethical violations are very common, including the sharing of fake news, hate speech, and unverified information. Moreover, the research revealed that moral incompetence is primarily caused by systemic problems, such as political influence, economic pressures, and a lack of adequate training and regulatory oversight, rather than by a need to create sensationalism for the audience. Finally, the results prove that the inability of the media to meet the established ethical standards is a burning issue that undermines the confidence of citizens and jeopardises the stability of the country.
MULTIPARTY DEMOCRACY AND CAMPAIGN COVERAGE OF NIGERIA’S 2023 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
Multiparty democracy thrives on competitive political engagement and access to a diverse range of choices for the electorate. In Nigeria, the news media, particularly newspapers, play a central role in shaping public understanding of electoral campaigns. This study examines how two prominent Nigerian newspapers, Daily Trust and Vanguard, covered the 2023 presidential election campaigns. Drawing on agenda-setting theory, the study explores the extent to which campaign promises, candidate character, and policy direction were emphasised in media coverage. Using quantitative content analysis, 298 editions published between 28 September 2022 and 23 February 2023 were analysed. A structured coding sheet was developed, and inter-coder reliability was assessed using Cohen’s Kappa, yielding kappa coefficients ranging from 0.78 to 0.84 across categories. The findings reveal that both newspapers disproportionately covered specific candidates. Daily Trust emphasised Atiku Abubakar's promises and Bola Ahmed Tinubu's character and policies, whereas Vanguard presented a more balanced coverage of the major contenders. The analysis shows that political coverage was shaped not only by issue salience but also by regional media affiliations, reinforcing Nigeria’s longstanding electoral fault lines. The study concludes that newspapers, while central to political communication, may inadvertently contribute to uneven visibility and electoral perception in a fragile multiparty democracy.
INCORPORATING VISUAL ARTS INTO ANTI-FOOD WASTE CAMPAIGNS
Food waste is a pervasive global issue with significant environmental, economic and social implications. Technological inadequacies, lack of awareness and behavioural factors remain a major challenge in this area, particularly in parts of Africa, which have a history of frequent power failures and other issues, including poor packaging, inadequate personnel training, underdeveloped transport systems, insufficient cold storage and insecurity. Some of these problems can be addressed through more effective and inclusive anti-food waste campaigns. This paper argues for the incorporation of visual arts into existing anti-food waste strategies, leveraging the potential of visual communication to promote positive behavioural change and foster individual and community social responsibility. Through a review of existing literature and case studies, this research demonstrates the potential of visual arts to raise awareness, evoke emotions and inspire action. By examining artworks, designs and relevant literature, this paper provides evidence-based argumentation for integrating visual arts into anti-food waste campaigns, highlighting the social responsibility of artists and designers in this context. The findings of this research have important implications for policymakers, practitioners and scholars seeking innovative solutions to the persistent food waste issue in Nigeria and beyond.
INFLUENCE OF COMMUNICATION BETWEEN HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS AND NULLIPAROUS WOMEN IN COPING WITH CHILDBIRTH EXPERIENCES IN ANYIGBA METROPOLIS
Childbirth is a significant life event, especially for nulliparous women who often experience fear, anxiety, and uncertainty due to lack of prior experience. Effective communication between healthcare providers and mothers is crucial in shaping coping strategies and overall childbirth experiences. This study examined the influence of healthcare provider communication on the coping experiences of nulliparous women in selected hospitals in Anyigba Metropolis. A mixed-method design was employed, involving 192 nulliparous women selected from a population of 383 using Krejcie and Morgan’s formula. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews with four healthcare providers (two doctors and two nurses). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. The study was guided by the Patient-Centered Care (PCC) Model. Findings indicated that communication strategies such as clear explanations, emotional reassurance, active listening, and supportive non-verbal cues helped reduce fear, enhance dignity, and improve coping during labour. Women reported that effective communication enabled them to remain calm, manage pain, and build confidence. However, challenges like staff shortages, overcrowding, heavy workloads, medical jargon, cultural barriers, and lack of privacy hindered communication. The study recommends regular training for healthcare providers on patient-centered communication to enhance maternal experiences and outcomes.
Evaluating the role of Strategic Communication Channels in facilitating tax compliance among the informal sector in Lagos State
This study investigates the effectiveness of strategic communication channels in promoting tax compliance within Lagos State’s informal sector, focusing on the role of communication strategies, taxpayer attitudes, and communication channels. Despite the sector’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s economy, tax compliance remains low, often due to distrust, limited awareness, and inadequate engagement mechanisms. Using a cross-sectional survey of 1,308 informal business operators, data were analyzed through one-sample t-tests and correlation techniques. The findings reveal that the communication strategies adopted by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) are effective in encouraging compliance, with a statistically significant mean score (M = 3.55, p < 0.05). Strategic communication was strongly correlated with positive taxpayer attitudes (r = 0.814, p < 0.01), indicating that persuasion and trust-building significantly enhance willingness to comply. Similarly, communication channels were positively correlated with compliance (r = 0.767, p < 0.01), demonstrating the importance of tailoring channels to diverse audience needs. The results align with Attitude Change Theory, the Theory of Planned Behaviour, Social Norms Theory, Communication Accommodation Theory, and Trust Theory, confirming that compliance behaviour is influenced by attitudes, norms, and institutional trust. The study concludes that multi-channel, audience-sensitive communication is essential for improving voluntary compliance and recommends a blend of traditional, digital, and face-to-face strategies to optimize effectiveness.
Perception and Credibility of citizen journalism among Mass Communication students and Journalists of ABU Samaru FM
The advent of new media technologies and the internet has provided a seamless platform for citizens of a country to be actively involved in the collection, reporting, and dissemination of information that affects society, working together with others. This study examined the concept of citizen journalism and further examined the credibility of citizen journalism in the Nigerian media landscape through a holistic approach, drawing data from ABU FM Samaru 101.1 and undergraduate mass communication students at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The SurveyMonkey online sample size calculator was used to determine the study’s 225 respondents, based on a total student population of 750. The study, grounded in source-credibility theory as its theoretical framework, employed a mixed research methodology that combined quantitative survey and interview methods. A questionnaire was issued to the 255 respondents, and interviews were conducted with three professional journalists from ABU Samaru FM Radio 101.1. Findings from this study revealed that citizen journalism in Nigeria is a credible source of news. However, it should be treated with caution, especially when addressing critical issues that concern society as a whole. Additionally, findings indicate that citizen journalism patterns of news reportage are brief and supplementary, whereas mainstream journalism patterns of news are in-depth and more insightful. Importantly, the study's findings concur that the source of news has a significant influence on its credibility. The study therefore recommends that gatekeeping, source credibility, information verification, and journalism training will further enhance the credibility of citizen journalism in the Nigerian media landscape.