Africa's image in the local pess

In the wake of accusations and counter-accusations between the West and developing nations over the unbalanced nature of information flow, communication researchers and policy formulation groups have, over the years, been enticed to make decisions based on empirical findings. In this paper, the author presents findings of a study conducted on four leading Nigerian newspapers over a one-year period. His conclusion is that the media in Africa are equally to blame for perpetrating a negative image of the continent, and that the continent can only benefit from a new and more equitable international communication order by re-examining her values. The paper warns that devoting undue attention to conflict, crime and disasters at the expense of the region's efforts, policies and programmes aimed at advancing the people's welfare, negates the very principle of balanced reporting which Africa so much craves for.