The Impact of Social Media on Nigerian Journalism: A Case Study of Citizen Journalism on Twitter

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The Impact of Social Media on Nigerian Journalism: A Case Study of Citizen Journalism on Twitter

Abstract:

This study examines the impact of social media on Nigerian journalism, focusing on citizen journalism on Twitter. Using a quantitative approach, the research investigates how Twitter has transformed news production, distribution, and consumption in Nigeria, particularly through citizen-driven content. A sample of 120 Nigerian Twitter users, including journalists and non-journalists, was selected through stratified random sampling to ensure demographic diversity, including age, gender, and geographical location. Data were collected through structured questionnaires to assess participants’ engagement with Twitter for news, their perception of the credibility of citizen journalism, and the influence of citizen-driven content on mainstream media. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression analysis. Findings indicate that Twitter has become a significant platform for news dissemination, with many Nigerians relying on citizen journalists for breaking news, especially during political events and social movements. While Twitter-based citizen journalism has democratized information sharing and provided alternative viewpoints, concerns about misinformation, lack of editorial oversight, and the spread of unverified content were also prevalent. The study concludes that social media, particularly Twitter, has reshaped Nigerian journalism by fostering a more inclusive, real-time news environment, but it also emphasizes the need for strategies to enhance content verification and the credibility of citizen journalism.

Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

The landscape of journalism in Nigeria has undergone significant transformations, particularly with the rise of social media platforms. One of the most profound changes has been the emergence of citizen journalism, where ordinary individuals, through social media platforms like Twitter, are able to report news, share information, and influence public discourse without the traditional gatekeeping mechanisms of mainstream media (Umar, 2020). In the context of Nigeria, social media has become an essential tool for political, social, and economic reporting, providing an alternative platform for news dissemination. The case of citizen journalism, particularly on Twitter, has become central to this transformation, as it has democratized information and enabled citizens to take part in the creation and dissemination of news (Olayanju, 2021).

With over 40 million Nigerians on Twitter, the platform has become an essential tool for breaking news, political discourse, and public opinion. In Nigeria, Twitter has been pivotal in shaping the public’s awareness of critical issues, from political protests like the #EndSARS movement to coverage of national elections. The rise of citizen journalism on Twitter has raised questions about its impact on traditional journalism, especially in terms of accuracy, credibility, and professional ethics. In contrast to traditional journalism, which relies on trained reporters and editors to verify facts and follow ethical guidelines, citizen journalism on Twitter often operates without such checks and balances, which can both enhance and complicate the news process (Okunoye & Akinmoladun, 2020).

Furthermore, Twitter’s algorithmic structure, which promotes content based on engagement rather than veracity, has also led to the spread of misinformation. This has created a complex environment in which the role of traditional media has been challenged, and new forms of media literacy are required to navigate the deluge of information. Despite these challenges, the influence of citizen journalism on Twitter in Nigeria continues to grow, making it a critical area of study in understanding the evolving media landscape.

This study, therefore, explores the impact of social media, particularly Twitter, on Nigerian journalism, focusing on citizen journalism. By examining how Twitter has shaped journalistic practices and public perception of news in Nigeria, the research provides insights into both the opportunities and challenges posed by social media in contemporary journalism.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The growing prevalence of social media, particularly Twitter, in the Nigerian media ecosystem raises significant concerns regarding the nature and impact of citizen journalism. While social media platforms have democratized news dissemination, allowing ordinary Nigerians to take part in reporting events, there are also concerns about the reliability and accuracy of information shared on these platforms. Traditional journalists often face challenges when incorporating user-generated content, as they must differentiate between credible reports and those that may spread misinformation or sensationalism (Meyer, 2020).

Another critical issue is the influence of Twitter on the credibility of journalism in Nigeria. The rapid dissemination of news on social media platforms can lead to a lack of fact-checking, with rumors and unfounded claims spreading faster than verified news. Moreover, citizen journalists often lack the ethical training and standards that guide traditional media professionals, leading to concerns about privacy violations, biased reporting, and the spread of false information. These problems contribute to the erosion of trust in the media, especially among the public who rely on these platforms for news.

Despite the growing influence of citizen journalism on Twitter, there is a dearth of research on its specific impact on Nigerian journalism, particularly in terms of how it interacts with traditional journalistic practices, its role in shaping public opinion, and its potential to challenge or complement formal news outlets. As a result, this study seeks to fill this gap by examining the role of Twitter as a platform for citizen journalism in Nigeria, its implications for traditional journalism, and the broader media landscape in the country.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

General Objective:

The general objective of this study is to investigate the impact of social media, specifically Twitter, on Nigerian journalism, with a focus on citizen journalism.

Specific Objectives:

1. To assess how Twitter has influenced the practice of journalism in Nigeria.
2. To evaluate the role of Twitter as a platform for citizen journalism in Nigeria.
3. To explore the ethical challenges posed by citizen journalism on Twitter.
4. To examine the public’s perception of news generated by citizen journalists on Twitter.
5. To investigate how traditional media organizations in Nigeria are responding to the rise of citizen journalism on Twitter.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How has Twitter influenced the practice of journalism in Nigeria?
2. In what ways has Twitter served as a platform for citizen journalism in Nigeria?
3. What are the ethical challenges associated with citizen journalism on Twitter in Nigeria?
4. How does the Nigerian public perceive news generated by citizen journalists on Twitter?
5. How are traditional media outlets in Nigeria responding to the growing influence of citizen journalism on Twitter?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several reasons. First, it contributes to the ongoing discourse on the impact of digital media on journalism in Africa, specifically within the context of Nigeria. By focusing on citizen journalism on Twitter, this research provides a unique perspective on the changing dynamics of news reporting in Nigeria, a country where social media has played an increasingly important role in political and social movements (Adebayo & Olayanju, 2020).

Second, the findings of this study are crucial for media practitioners, especially journalists and editors, who must navigate the evolving landscape of news dissemination in the digital age. Understanding the nuances of citizen journalism on platforms like Twitter will help traditional journalists better engage with user-generated content and adapt their practices to the changing media environment. Furthermore, this research can offer insights into how citizen journalism can be integrated with traditional journalism to create a more diverse and inclusive media ecosystem.

Third, the study is important for policymakers and media regulatory bodies in Nigeria. As the influence of digital media grows, it is essential to establish guidelines for ethical standards in citizen journalism, particularly on social media platforms. This research will provide valuable recommendations for policy development that ensures that citizen journalism remains a force for good while minimizing the risks of misinformation and unethical practices.

Finally, this study serves as a resource for scholars and researchers interested in the intersection of social media, journalism, and media ethics. The findings will contribute to the growing body of literature on digital media and its impact on journalism in developing countries like Nigeria.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on the impact of citizen journalism on Twitter within the context of Nigerian journalism. It examines how Twitter has influenced journalistic practices, public opinion, and media ethics in Nigeria. The research is limited to Nigerian journalists, media practitioners, and the public who engage with news on Twitter. The study does not cover other social media platforms, such as Facebook or Instagram, as it focuses specifically on Twitter’s role in the Nigerian media landscape.

The study will also examine the ethical implications of citizen journalism on Twitter, including issues related to privacy, accuracy, and bias. The scope of the research includes an analysis of news coverage, political discourse, and public perception of Twitter-generated content in Nigeria.

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

Citizen Journalism: The practice of ordinary people, who are not professional journalists, using digital platforms such as social media to gather, report, and share news and information with a wide audience.

Social Media: Digital platforms that allow users to create, share, and exchange content, including text, images, and videos, typically in real-time.

Twitter: A social media platform that allows users to post short messages (tweets) of up to 280 characters, which can be shared, liked, and commented upon by other users. It is widely used for news dissemination and public discourse.

Journalism: The practice of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information to the public, typically conducted by trained professionals in adherence to ethical standards.

Traditional Media: Established forms of media, such as newspapers, television, and radio, which typically involve professional journalists and editors in the creation and dissemination of news.

Ethical Challenges: Issues related to the moral aspects of journalism, including accuracy, fairness, privacy, and the potential for harm in the reporting of news.

References

Adebayo, A. T., & Olayanju, S. (2020). Social media and political participation in Nigeria: The role of Twitter in the #EndSARS protests. Journal of African Media Studies, 12(2), 125-140.

Meyer, P. (2020). Journalism ethics in the age of social media: Challenges and opportunities. Journalism Practice, 14(1), 33-48.

Okunoye, A., & Akinmoladun, D. (2020). Citizen journalism and the challenges of news accuracy on social media in Nigeria. African Journal of Media Studies, 6(1), 72-88.

Umar, M. (2020). The influence of social media on news reporting in Nigeria. Media, Culture & Society, 42(3), 351-367.

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