African Media Barometer Nigeria

Nigeria has one of the most pulsating and diverse media landscapes in Africa, and the print sector in particular is generally outspoken in its criticism of unpopular government policies. However, the media sometimes face politicized interference from public officials and regulators over their criticism of the government or coverage of sensitive issues, such as high-level corruption and national security. As a result the government stepped up its interference with Nigeria’s active media sector in 2014.

The 1999 constitution guarantees freedom of expression and of the press. Public agencies responsible for media licensing and regulation are run by government appointees whose decisions are not independent, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). There are more than 100 national and local news publications, the most influential of which are privately owned, while radio remains the main source of information for Nigerians, television penetration has grown substantially in recent years with the proliferation of satellite dishes—even in rural areas. Bribery and corruption remain problems in the media industry, particularly in the form of “brown envelopes,” or small cash gifts that sources give journalists.