Information Communication Technology and Citizen Journalism in Nigeria: Pros and Cons

Abstract

This study explicates the relationship between citizen journalism and ICT in Nigeria. It explores the pros and cons of ICT and citizen journalism. Qualitative research method was employed for the collection of secondary data which comprised of books, magazines and journals. The study reveals that in as much as citizen journalism and ICT are interwoven, numerous issues and challenges associated with ICT are confronting the efficiency of citizen journalism in Nigeria. Blogging, podcasting and mablogging among others have made internet users (Netizens) to no longer passively consume media news but actively participate in them. Another issue confronting citizen journalism and ICT is the fact that there are no editors (gatekeepers) in the news and information disseminated through citizen journalism using the available ICT media. No editors to verify the truth within what someone has written, unlike in the traditional journalism and in the world of endless information, credibility is a very essential ingredient for information seekers. To curtail some of the issues affecting citizen journalism/participation, the study recommends that participants (citizen journalists) should try as much as possible to ensure that their news and information are edited by professionals before they are published. ICT facilities should be made available in areas where they are not available and at cheap cost to ensure that its range of targeted audience is vast, thus making it more efficient.