International Journal of Broadcasting & Communication Technology
The International Journal of Broadcasting and Communication Technology (IJBCT) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published by the Department of Broadcasting, Lagos State University, Nigeria. It serves as a global platform for research on communication trends, media studies, and technological innovations in broadcasting. Covering topics like digital TV, 5G/6G networks, AI-driven media, multimedia systems, and cybersecurity, IJBCT welcomes original research, reviews, and case studies. The journal fosters scholarly discourse on contemporary issues in mass communication, emphasizing the impact of ICTs in a globalized world. It aims to bridge academia and industry by disseminating cutting-edge advancements in broadcasting and communication technologies, catering to researchers, engineers, and media professionals worldwide.
The Role of Nigerian Press Council in Combating Unethical Journalism
Ethics in journalism is a subject of constant debate, with varied interpretations and perspectives. The Nigerian Press Council (NPC) is tasked with regulating ethical standards in the Nigerian press but the organization faces numerous challenges in enforcing compliance and addressing unethical practices. This paper examines the functions, powers, limitations, controversies, and challenges surrounding the NPC, using a qualitative research approach. Through semi-structured interviews with senior Directors of the NPC, thematic analysis reveals insight into the NPC's role in combating unethical journalism. While the NPC plays a crucial role in upholding ethical standards, challenges such as political interference, inadequate regulatory frameworks, and limited resources persist. Recommendations are provided to strengthen the regulatory framework, enhance capacity building and collaboration, leverage technology, and raise public awareness on media ethics. By addressing these challenges and implementing the proposed recommendations, Nigeria can foster a media environment that upholds professionalism, ethics, and accountability.
Copyright (c) 2024 IJBCT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Awareness, Knowledge and Perception of Communication Students Towards Misinformation, Disinformation, Fake News and Fact-Checking
Given the increasing spread of misleading information in the digital age, media literacy and fact-checking have become essential for responsible media consumption and professional practice. This study investigates the level of awareness, understanding, and perception of fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and fact-checking among Mass Communication students of Faculty of Communication and Media Studies (FCMS) at Lagos State University (LASU). Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a framework, the study explores the students' attitude toward behavior and perceived behavioral control regarding information verification. The study employed a descriptive design with survey method with the use of online Google form as instrument of data collection. Proportionate sampling, systematic and convenience sampling techniques were employed to select 326 Mass Communication undergraduates in LASU. Findings reveal a high level of awareness, with 99% of students familiar with the concepts. Students demonstrated strong understanding of fake news (89%) and fact-checking (92%) but showed limited comprehension of misinformation (35%) and disinformation (53%). Despite their positive perception of fact-checking with 85% considering it crucial to combating fake news and 95% verifying information before sharing, there is still need to find out how they verify information before sharing. The study recommends integrating comprehensive media literacy programs into the LASU curriculum, emphasizing the distinctions between misinformation, disinformation, and fake news; and how to verify information.
Nollywood Star System and Celebrities as Perceived by Film Audience in Lagos State
This study examined Nollywood Star System and Celebrities as perceived by film audience in Lagos State and also the attitude of the audience to film's plot, theme, character (actor) and language. Specifically, the objectives of the study include identifying audience preferences of Nollywood Star/Celebrities and Practitioners in Lagos State, understanding the audience rationale and gratification for their preferences. The study used the Selective Exposure Theory while it adopted the descriptive research design with survey as method of study. Three hundred (300) copies of questionnaire were administered as the main instrument. Convenience Sampling Technique was adopted for this study. The study found out that majority (92.3%) of the respondents watch film. Majority of the respondents preferred actors/actresses most having 53.3% followed by producers with 20.30% and scriptwriters with 12% majority of the participants agreed 60.3% that film as at 2005 are better compared to 2021 as they depict culture and give insight. Respondents believed that the industry is growing on a faster pace because of the new practitioners involved having 74.33. Majority agree 82.2% that there have been changes in Nollywood recently. Majority of the respondents are light viewers having 48.3%. The income respondents earn can influence film source. There is a significant relationship between gender and film audience. (χ² = 55.76; df = 40 p< 0.05). The improvement in Advert/Trailer across age distribution is significant (χ² = 46.14 df = 32 p< 0.05; since the calculated value of .000 is less than the 0.05). The results showed that majority of film audience prefer Actors/Actresses than other practitioners star or celebrities in the film industry as majority preferred Odunlade Adekola and also star/celebrities are better advanced than before. The study recommended that the star/celebrities should lead and maintain a reputable and exemplary life that is worth emulation as film audience sees them as role models. Mass media houses should help in enhancing the growth of film industry by projecting their good images more.
Analysis of Contraceptives' Information Sources among Undergraduates in Lagos State
The quantity and quality of information received may determine the use of contraceptives. Previous studies on reproductive health of undergraduates focused on knowledge and use of contraceptives among students but gave little attention to the sources of contraceptives information. This study therefore investigated the sources of contraceptives' information by undergraduates in Lagos State. The objectives of the study were to: examine the extent to which undergraduates receive contraceptives information and identify the sources of contraceptives' information. The study was guided by uses and gratification theory and protection motivation theory. The study adopted the descriptive research design; it utilized quantitative and qualitative data generated through survey method and focus group discussion. A self-designed questionnaire and focus group discussion guide were used as research instruments. The study employed multi-stage sampling procedure comprising stratification, simple random sampling, purposive sampling and available sampling techniques while Krejcie and Morgan formula for sampling was used to select 1,127 undergraduates from University of Lagos, Lagos State University and Caleb University. Three groups of thirty students, comprising ten male and female students from each of the selected university were formed for the FGD. Quantitative data were analysed using percentages while qualitative data were subjected to theme mapping. Most of the undergraduates (82.4%) said they rarely receive information on contraceptives from the mainstream media while majority (87.3%) believed that they were not adequately exposed to information on contraceptives. Results indicate that social media and other online platforms are the leading source of information (98.4%) on contraceptives among undergraduates. Findings from the FGD align with results from the survey. The discussants agreed that most of their knowledge on contraceptives are derived from social media while the mainstream media and school rarely provide such information. Accordingly, the study recommended that the mainstream media should create more programmes and contents on sex education with special campaigns on use of contraceptives; such contents should be broadcast and published on their major social media platforms while all universities in Lagos State should organize periodic campaigns and programmes on contraceptives use among students.
Influence of Communication on the Political Participation of Grassroots Women in Selected Areas of North Central Nigeria
This study investigated the influence of communication on the political participation of grassroots women in selected areas of North- Central Nigeria. Anchored on the feminism theory, the study deployed survey as method and a questionnaire served as research instrument. By a combination of simple random sampling, purposive sampling, proportionate sampling, and qualified volunteer sampling techniques, 400 adult female respondents were selected from three rural communities in each of Nasarawa State, Niger State, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Findings revealed that grassroots women in the selected areas of North- Central Nigeria were well aware of their chances of political participation; to a large extent, they perceived the mass media as projecting Nigerian female politicians in a positive light; they showed a high level of readiness to participate in politics at their localities, attending to political messages to the extent of being persuaded to show interest in political engagement; the level of communication had a significant influence on the level of their participation in politics; in as much as grassroots women in the selected areas were information- rich about their rights to political participation, gendered beliefs have had a significant influence on their exclusion from participating in politics. Recommendations made include encouraging women to run for political office, even at grassroots levels; promotion of the advantages of women in leadership by the mass media; discouragement of negative gendered beliefs about women and efforts (by various authorities) towards the obliteration of cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions that denigrate women.
Copyright (c) 2026 IJBCT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Strategic Communication as Panacea to Peacebuilding in Multiethnic Ecology
A society becomes threatened and endangered when communication and information handlers deftly handle human interactions and communicative processes. Hence, our society becomes an abattoir; an unsaved haven and a place where human beings are dehumanized and debased. Previous studies have dwelt on crisis communication, and causes of crisis while others have focused on the devastating effects of crisis in our society with little attention paid to the extent strategic communication can go in mitigating crisis and dousing tension associated with it, This study, therefore, presents a position paper on the need for the adoption of strategic communication strategies instead of being combative in resolving perennial industrial crises, communal conflicts, insurgencies, and other forms of ethnic militia attacks that are prevalent in Nigerian contemporary society. It is taken that a peaceful society will engender impactful governance. The study adopted the descriptive design with secondary data from extant literature as designed by Diamond and McDonald Multi- Track Diplomacy (IMTD the strategic approach in peacebuilding in a multiethnic ecology like Nigeria.
Ethical Discourse in Public Relations Practice in the Digital Age
This study examines ethical discourse in Public Relations practice in the digital age. The digital age is characterized by the systematic transitioning from the industrial age to the era of Information Technology (IT). The most notable aspect of this shift is the introduction of the internet and digitalization, which ushered in the quick spread of information technology (IT). The arrival of digitalization and the internet, which ushered in the quick spread of information and rendered traditional method of information transfer seems outdated at the start of twenty first (21st) century. Based on the theory of technological determinism, this study investigated the role of ethics in public relations practice in the digital age. The study reviewed the influence of ethical discourse on the dynamics of public relations in dissemination of information and the challenges face by PR practitioners. The primary data was generated using google form questionnaire to sample the opinions of 110 Public Relations Practitioners. The findings revealed that digital technologies, social media platform and the internet are becoming major tools among practitioners. It has also increased more fake news and unethical practice by PR practitioners. The study identified that most PR practitioners prefer new media to the conventional mass media. The study suggests the need for training and retraining of PR practitioners in the area of digital technologies, especially the use of AI while recommending that PR practitioners should maintain credibility and integrity in their practice.
Agricultural Communication Strategies for Increased Productivity among Low Income Farmers in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State
The persistent low agricultural productivity among farmers in Nigeria, which has contributed significantly to food security challenges, remains a major concern for stakeholders. This issue is largely attributed to the inadequate access to essential agricultural information among low- income farmers, which hampers their ability to improve and increase productivity. This study investigates the communication methods employed by the Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme (OGADEP) to relay agricultural information to rural farmers. It examines the effectiveness of these methods and the challenges faced by both OGADEP and farmers in the dissemination and reception of information. Using a mixed- methods approach, the study combined quantitative survey research with qualitative structured interviews. The study's sample included 315 rural farmers from Odeda local government area, five extension agents, and one OGADEP information officer. Stratified sampling was applied for farmers, while purposive sampling was used for extension agents and the information officer. Data were collected via questionnaires and interview guides. Findings show that extension agents (EAs) are the primary communication channel for OGADEP, yet 60% of farmers find this method inadequate due to limited access to EAs. The study also highlighted various challenges in the dissemination and reception of information faced by both EAs and farmers. The study recommends enhancing the extension service as a critical strategy for improving the dissemination of agricultural information. Strengthening the extension service by increasing the number of extension agents, improving their training, and expanding outreach efforts to ensure more comprehensive and effective communication with rural farmers is paramount.
Contemporary Nigerian Society and Religious Parenting Style in the Film, Man of God
Religious parenting style is commonplace in most contemporary Nigeria society. Parents who adhere to Christianity and Islam usually strive to nurture their children in line with their faiths. For the promotion and preservation of religious heritages, the film technology is often employed as a necessary tool. In the corpus and narrative of the film, Man of God, the necessity of corporal punishment as a religious nurturing tool for children/adolescence is underscored. The study, therefore, examined the seeming opposition in parenting approaches in relation to religion with the aim of envisioning a blend in parental approaches for a better society. It employed ethnography as research design and focus group discussion (FGD) as the data collection instrument. Participants affirmed that corporal punishment meted to Samuel by his father was responsible for his decision to live a wayward life on campus. Again, participants strongly agreed that Samuel- mother's softness has nothing to do with how he ended up in jail, and that he (Samuel) would not have gone to jail if he had kept the godly advice and commands his father gave to him. The study concluded that a blend of warmth, compassion, and corporal punishment with explanation may drive home the desired outcomes in behavioural lifestyle in adolescence and adult life. The study recommends that film producers should produce family dramas that engage the effects of religious parenting nurturing tools embedded in warmth and compassion.
The Role of TikTok as a Medium of Public Relations Among Lagos Youths
This study examines the evolving role of TikTok as a medium of public relations among youths in Lagos, Nigeria. TikTok has rapidly emerged as a prominent platform for cultural expression and digital engagement globally, influencing how brands and individuals interact with younger demographics. In the context of Lagos, where digital connectivity is expanding, this research investigates how youths utilize TikTok to shape public opinion, disseminate information, and construct identities. Drawing on empirical reviews and qualitative analysis, the study explores the challenges and opportunities that TikTok presents for brands seeking to navigate cultural nuances and engage effectively with Lagosian youth audiences. By highlighting these dynamics, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of digital media's impact on public relations strategies in urban African contexts.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Broadcasting & Communication Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Audience Perception on the Use of TikTok in Promoting Gospel Music
This research examines how audiences perceive the incorporation of TikTok in the gospel music genre. Utilizing a descriptive research design and survey method, the study gathered responses from 190 students at Yaba College of Technology to assess reactions, preferences, and insights regarding TikTok as a promotional platform for gospel music. Findings indicate that TikTok significantly facilitates the consumption and sharing of gospel music among students, with many actively engaging with content and creators. However, the impact on spiritual and emotional well-being varies among respondents. The study highlights TikTok’s potential as an effective tool for gospel music promotion while identifying opportunities to enhance content visibility and community engagement on the platform.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Investigative Journalism in Good Governance
Good governance is characterized by a people-oriented government that harnesses national resources to improve social infrastructure and upholds the rule of law, equity, and justice. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and investigative journalism can enhance good governance in Nigeria. AI, defined as a computer system capable of performing complex tasks such as reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving, remains in its embryonic stage in Nigeria, with limited government investment. Respondents expressed concerns that integrating AI into journalism could lead to job losses, high costs, and inaccuracies compared to traditional investigative journalism, which holds government officials accountable and ensures checks and balances. Despite these challenges, journalists view AI as an emerging technology with potential for processing and disseminating information in the future.
Assessment of Media Literacy Skills Among LASU Mass Communication Undergraduates
The study examines the level of awareness on media Literacy skills among Lagos State University Mass communication Undergraduates and their general knowledge on the concept of fake news and its implications on the society. The advent of technology has made it easy for traditional media to move to online platform, hence there is an overloads of Information on Online platform especially on social media. This also enables fake news among our society and it has been difficult for individuals to verify truthful information from false news. The study based its scope on LASU Mass communication undergraduates. The study was anchored on Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study adopted the descriptive research design and survey method for data collection. Google form was shared among all levels and departments with over 500 responses retrieved. Findings revealed that majority of the undergraduates with over 51.4% are aware of media literacy skills and agreed its about being able to create, access, evaluate, analyze and verify information received. The study concluded that, LASU Mass communication undergraduates understand the concept of media literacy skills, fake news and its implications but rarely verify information posted online especially on social media. The study recommends that, NGOs and media organizations should create awareness on media literacy skills especially on social media.
Influence of Media Ownership on Media Agenda Setting in Nigeria
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.
Media and Press Freedom: A Study on the Limitations of Press Freedom in Nigeria
Press freedom is the oxygen of democracy, but in Nigeria, it is a gasping breath. This study examined media practitioners' personal experiences with limitations on press freedom in Nigeria, how those limitations impact journalistic practices in Nigeria and the implications of limited press freedom on accountability and democracy in Nigeria. The study adopted qualitative research design and in-depth interview as the method of data collection. Chilling effect and self-censorship theories were adopted. Findings revealed a disturbing picture of press freedom in Nigeria, with severe limitations resulting in a culture of self-censorship. Many journalists reported hesitation to cover sensitive topics, fearing retribution and backlash. Harassment and intimidation of journalists were discovered, with numerous cases of physical and verbal threats. Additionally, the study found a decline in investigative journalism, with few journalists reporting on corruption and human rights abuses. The study also noted a lack of transparency in media ownership and funding, leading to undue influence. To address the challenges facing press freedom in Nigeria, the study recommends strengthening regulatory frameworks to protect press freedom and ensure accountability. Implementing measures to prevent harassment and intimidation.
Perception of Lagos State University Students on the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Journalism
The integration of Artificial Intelligence technologies has become essential within the media industry, especially in the field of journalism. These technologies have revolutionized the processes of news creation, curation, and dissemination, presenting various advantages including heightened efficiency, enhanced personalization, and increased audience engagement. However, not many studies have been carried out to understand students' perception of the role of AI in journalism. Hence, this study seeks to examine the perception of Lagos State University students on the role of Artificial Intelligence AI in journalism. The study population comprised of undergraduates from the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Lagos State University. The study was anchored on the Technological Determinism Theory. The descriptive survey research design was adopted and the Taro Yamane formula was used to calculate a sample size of 278 respondents. Questionnaires served as the instrument of data collection and data was analyzed using frequency tables and simple percentages. Findings showed AI plays a pivotal role in journalism by automating news writing, producing high quality articles and efficiently generating news report. Results also showed that high cost associated with implementing AI tools, inadequate internet infrastructure is recognized and the shortage of skilled professionals who can manage AI tools also poses a substantial challenge to the integration of AI in journalism practices in Nigeria. Based on the findings, the study concluded that undergraduates in Lagos state university perceive Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a veritable tool which can provide insurmountable value in the journalism profession.
Assessment of Revenue Model of Selected Campus Radio Stations in Lagos State, Nigeria
The unique role of campus radio stations in promoting participatory communication and development within university communities makes them an indispensable tool of democracy in the 21st century. This study examines the revenue model of selected campus radio stations in Nigeria with focus on LASU Radio 95.7fm and UNILAG 103.1 FM. The study addresses a notable gap in research by specifically investigating the revenue generation models, university management involvement, challenges faced in funding and operations, operational aspects, and the purpose and impact of campus radio stations in Nigeria. A qualitative research approach was employed using key informant interviews to gather data from stakeholders at LASU Radio and UNILAG FM. The findings reveal that campus radio stations employ diverse revenue generation strategies, including online transactions, commission-based deals, donations, sponsored events, and partnerships with advertising partners. University managements contribute significantly to funding the campus radio stations, with full funding by LASU and collaborative efforts with UNILAG Radio. Operational challenges such as power supply interruptions, budget constraints, and staffing shortages impact the day-to-day operations and sustainability of campus radio stations. Recommendations include diversifying revenue streams, enhancing university support, addressing operational challenges, focusing on community engagement, and fostering educational programming.
Media Capture and Journalistic Accountability in Nigeria: Analysis the Impact of Ownership Structures on Ethical Reporting
This study investigates the challenges posed by media capture to journalistic accountability within Nigeria's media landscape, emphasizing the ethical dimensions of reporting corruption. Drawing on Media System Dependency and Gatekeeping Theories, the study explores how ownership patterns, regulatory pressures, and digital platform influences restrict media independence, often resulting in biased reporting that favors powerful elites. Through a quantitative design, data from 200 Nigerian media practitioners reveal the impact of educational background, professional training, and demographic factors on practitioners' familiarity with ethical codes and their perceived accountability. Results indicate that, although 85.3% of respondents report awareness of ethical standards, only a limited proportion apply these codes in practice, undermined by inadequate ethics training and external control over editorial decisions. Demographic factors such as age and education correlate significantly with accountability, highlighting regional disparities, particularly among younger and less-trained practitioners. Findings suggest that media capture diminishes public trust, erodes the media's gatekeeping function, and weakens democratic processes. Recommendations include enhancing ethics training, establishing independent oversight bodies, diversifying funding models, and creating targeted professional development for emerging media roles. This study provides a critical framework for understanding and addressing the ethical and structural challenges faced by Nigerian media in promoting accountability, reinforcing the media's vital role in sustaining democratic integrity.
Impact of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) on Campus Journalism in Lagos State
This study examines the effects of ICTs on journalism practice among campus journalists in Lagos State. With a descriptive research design, 235 respondents which comprised 300-400 level students and campus journalists responded to a structured questionnaire. The study shows that ICT has a positive impact on news collection and drastically minimizes manual activities while increasing the quality and the amount of the information published. However, some of the challenges that slowed the effectiveness of IC'Is in campus journalism practice campaign include fake news and inadequate manpower and knowledge on digital technology. Findings confirm the inability of current journalism practice to exist without the support of IC'is, while suggesting the need for increased trainings focused on the usage of ICT, providing the affordable opportunities to reach the majority of the population with the help of ICT, and increasing the fines for misleading information and fake news.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Copyright (c) 2025 IJBCT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Role of X (Twitter) in Fostering Political Engagement among Lagos State University Students
In the contemporary landscape of political communication, social media platforms have become indispensable channels for shaping public opinion, mobilizing support, and fostering political engagement. Among these platforms, Twitter stands out as a prominent arena where political discourse flourishes, facilitating communication and interaction among political figures and citizens of a particular country. This study examines the role of witter in fostering political engagement among Lagos State university students. The Technological Determinism theory served as the theoretical framework of the study, while the Survey Research Method was used and the questionnaire administered via google forms, served as the instrument of data collection. The population of this study comprised of Lagos state university students and the laro Yamane formula was used to calculate a sample size of 396 respondents for this study. Available sampling technique was used to select respondents who partook in this study. Findings showed that a substantial proportion, constituting (80.1%) of respondents use Twitter for political engagement. Findings also revealed that majority of respondents view Twitter as an effective platform for raising political awareness, holding political leaders and institutions accountable, and organizing and mobilizing for political causes. Based on the findings, the paper recommends the implementation of programs to further enhance students' digital literacy skills, including critical thinking and media literacy, to empower them to navigate political discourse on Twitter effectively.
Social Media Regulation in the Context of Safeguarding Freedom of Speech: A Study of Twitter Ban in Nigeria
This study examined the intersection of social media regulation and the protection of freedom of speech, focusing on the case study of the Twitter ban (now X) in Nigeria. The ban, initiated by the Nigerian government in June 2021 after a tweet by President Muhammadu Buhari was deleted by the platform, sparked widespread controversy and criticism from civil society organizations, international bodies, and free speech advocates. The study delves into the impacts of the ban on journalists and media professionals, highlighting their challenges in accessing information and engaging with audiences. Furthermore, the study explores the implications of the ban on freedom of expression, press freedom, and public interest in Nigeria. Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities posed by social media regulation, the study underscores the importance of balancing state interests with fundamental rights and democratic values: Recommendations are made for policymakers to consider the implications of restricting social media platforms on freedom of expression and information, foster transparency in regulatory frameworks, and promote digital literacy among stakeholders. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on social media regulation in democracies and emphasizes the need for a rights-based approach to protect democratic values in the digital age.
Influence of Social Media on Security in Nigeria
Social media platform has reengineered social interaction among peers, businesses, governments globally. Social media platforms are used in advancing social and national insecurity, such as the situation in some parts of Nigeria. For some years now, terrorism, kidnapping and ritualism have engulfed the Nigerian states by insurgent groups while separatist groups have also carried out demonstrations in the western and southern parts of Nigeria. Each of these groups is using various kinds of online media to propagate their agenda, and the general public also uses social media platforms to escalate this propaganda, which sometimes is fake news. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 51 (fifty-one) personnel of government institutions that oversee national security such as Nigerian Police, Civil Defense Corpse, Nigeria Immigration officer, Nigeria Army and members of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Agbara and Igbesa Area of Ado-Odo Ota Local Government, Ogun State were purposively selected due to vast geographical scope of intelligence gathering. Data were collected using Demographic data form and self-constructed questionnaire designed by the researchers. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis was used to test the hypothesis formulated at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed social media have significant effect on National security of Nigeria. It was concluded that social media can be used by law enforcement officers to detect and prevent security threats since social media social media intelligence is an indispensable technique that could be leveraged to investigate national security threats as security organs can collect and analyse social media content and or data with a view to drawing security strategic insights for evidence-based decision-making. It was recommended among others that social networking sites should be monitored for possible activities that may threaten the security of the nation, government and various relevant bodies should focus on policy development and public avareness campaigns to sensitize the public on how to utilize social media platforms well to promote cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
Investigating the Impact of Media Ownership Structures on Editorial Independence and News Reporting in Digitalage
The influence of media ownership on editorial independence remains an argument in communication scholarship. While many believe that ownership largely influences news reportage, others say the degree of such influence is minimal or conditional. With the rise of the digital age, it becomes imperative to re- examine the influence media ownership on news reporting and editorial contents. Therefore, this study investigates if media ownership in Nigeria still has an impact on editorial independence and news reportage in the digital age. The study adopted the qualitative research approach using interview for data collection. The study was anchored on the social responsibility theory and the propaganda model. The findings from the study show that even in digital age, media ownership and control still has an impact on editorial contents and news reporting in Nigeria. Also, respondents revealed that editorial independence may be jeopardized for personal remuneration and welfare. It is recommended that media owners should grant media practitioners the liberty to exercise their duties without fear while media practitioners should deliberately balance their reports.
Theorizing Religious Trolling and Its Psychological Effects within Social Media Landscapes in Nigeria
This study explored the phenomenon of religious trolling and its psychological effects within the social media landscape in Nigeria. Religious trolling, a form of online harassment targeted at individuals or groups based on their religious beliefs, had become increasingly prevalent on social media platforms. The study was guided by the need to understand how this specific form of trolling affected the psychological well-being of users and the broader implications for social cohesion in a religiously diverse society like Nigeria. Theoretical frameworks such as Social Identity Theory (SIT) and the Online Disinhibition Effect (ODE) were employed to contextualise the psychological impact of religious trolling. A comprehensive review of existing literature, market reports, and empirical studies was conducted to analyse the social media environment, the nature of religious trolling, and its psychological repercussions. The findings revealed that religious trolling significantly exacerbated inter-religious tensions and contributed to psychological distress among victims, including anxiety, depression, and reduced self-esteem. The study concluded that religious trolling was not merely a digital annoyance but a serious issue with profound psychological and social implications. Key recommendations included the need for stricter regulations on social media platforms, the promotion of digital literacy to foster resilience among users, and the implementation of more effective reporting and support systems for victims. These measures were deemed crucial in mitigating the psychological impact of religious trolling and fostering a healthier online environment in Nigeria.
Global Trends in Information and Communication Technology Integration Research
The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into various spheres of human endeavour has aided its penetration in the 21" century. This has created easier operations and tools necessary for quality production and distribution of knowledge. This study, therefore, ascertained the volume of ICT integrated studies across continents, the most prominent method adopted in carrying it out, and the major theories, models and themes adopted in ICT integrated studies. The study adopted content analysis method, and embarked on a meta-analysis of one hundred and twenty studies across the globe selected through literary search in order to determine the trends in ICT integration research. Thus, five coding categories were developed comprising the year of publication, methods of study, theories used, findings and themes. Findings indicated that during the years of focus (2000 and 2017), 44.16% of the research publications were published from 2006 to 2010, and 30% was carried out in Asia, followed by North America (18.33%) and Europe (15.83%), while Australia /Oceania and Africa had the least during the years in focus. However, most of the studies (43.33%) used the triangulation method to investigate the integration of ICT into education, while quantitative and qualitative method usage was 23.33% and 19.16% respectively. Moreover; 43.33% of the entire studies selected applied no theory to explain the integration of ICT in education, and 56.66% of the entire studies selected were negative and unfavourable to ICT integration. Most themes in the selected studies (67.5%) were related to the users. Consequently, as users and teachers are the core themes in ICT integration studies, scholarly investigation and intervention on the subject should pay adequate attention to both. UNESCO and governments in Africa and Antactica should encourage the integration of ICT in education by formulating and implementing positive initiatives to support the goal.