Global Advanced Research Journal of Educational Research and Reviews (GARJERR) ISSN: 2315-5132

August 2015, 4(8): pp. 146-153

Copyright © 2015 Global Advanced Research Journals

Review

News Media and Security in Nigeria: A Theoretical Analysis

Ahmad Muhammad Auwal

Department of Mass Communication, Nasarawa State University, P.M.B 1022, Keffi – Nigeria.

Email: amdauwal@gmail.com

Accepted 13 August, 2015

Abstract

The basic functions of news media are to inform, educate and entertain. Through these functions, they sensitize, enlighten and influence members of the public to participate actively in developmental activities and otherwise causes. The information disseminated by the news media could be harmful or useful to the society. This study argues that news reporters have a lot of power. What they write can influence decisions, help form public opinions of people and contribute to the general attitude of readers and life in general. As indicated by Friday Je (1986), the mass media have the power and capability to bring about change in society for the improvement of the quality of life and “because the media have this ability to report and inform so effectively, it could be said with great confidence that as change agents, they have the power to alter, even where resistance is strong the way of life of a community positively or negatively.” The study concludes that the mass media can contribute efficiently to national security, only if they perform their duties in accordance with the provisions of the constitution and the social responsibilities of the press. It recommends that security operatives should work in collaboration with media practitioners as watchdogs. Until news media rise to expectations and use their powers judiciously, national security will continue to be threatened.

Keywords: News Media, Security, Mass Media, National Security, Boko Haram, Nigeria