NEWSPAPER COVERAGE OF FUEL SCARCITY IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF THE NATION NEWSPAPER

Abstract

This study examines the coverage of fuel scarcity in Nigeria by The Nation Newspaper. The research addresses the issue's increasing occurrence and its multifaceted impact on society, economy, and governance. The study aims to analyze how The Nation Newspaper reports on fuel scarcity, exploring its causes, consequences, and potential solutions.The study's significance lies in its potential to reveal how media shapes public perceptions and policy responses to fuel scarcity. Using quantitative questionnaire, the research examined the responses of the participants on their awareness level, perception, effectiveness in dissemination of information and the impact The Nation Newspaper's coverage of fuel scarcity on the people.The study highlights prevalent themes in the newspaper's coverage, such as government intervention, energy policies, public outrage, economic implications, and potential remedies. The study also assesses biases or perspectives present in the reporting, shedding light on the newspaper's role as an information mediator during fuel scarcity incidents. This research recommends advocacy for balanced reporting, accurate information dissemination, investigative journalism, and constructive discussions on fuel scarcity. The study emphasizes media's role in not just highlighting issues, but also advocating sustainable solutions for Nigeria's recurring fuel scarcity challenges.This research contributes to understanding how media frames issues like fuel scarcity, offering insights into presentation, perception, and potential resolution. It provides a nuanced view of media's impact on public awareness, government action, and societal discourse regarding fuel scarcity in Nigeria.