Influence of Media Ownership on Media Agenda Setting in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the patterns of media ownership in Nigeria and their implications on media agenda setting. As a position paper, it argues that the current pattern of media ownership and control in Nigeria hinders the media's ability to autonomously set genuine national agenda. A significant number of media organizations in Nigeria are owned by politicians, influential public and private officials, retired officials, powerful business figures, and state and federal governments. These groups, often referred to as the ruling class, are the primary "news makers" in Nigerian media. Their ideas and viewpoints dominate the news, information, and opinions disseminated. The concept of "news making" by these "news makers," who wield significant power both directly and indirectly, poses a threat to the media's independence in shaping public policy. Instead of operating independently, the media often serve as a platform for the objectives imposed by their owners and their allies.