Constraints on mass media policies in Nigeria

This paper discusses some of the constraints on efforts to formulate comprehensive mass media policies in Nigeria. It reviews the constitutional and political environment of the mass media and journalistic practice in Nigeria and identifies legal, economic, historical, linguistic and cultural factors which impede the development of the mass media and constrain their performance. It argues that antagonisms between politicians and journalists have led to government nationalization and control of the mass media thus marginalizing the role of journalists as watchdogs on government conduct of public affairs. It calls for a redefinition of the role of the media in Nigeria more in accord with its history, culture and aspirations and away from the present western mode which only fans conflicts between the government and the mass media. That is the direction an appropriate mass media policy for Nigeria should take.