Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on exploring the relationship between the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and political stability in the Fourth Republic of Nigeria, with a case study specifically on NTA Lagos State. The Fourth Republic of Nigeria, which began in 1999, has been marked by a series of political transitions, challenges, and stability issues. The role of the media, particularly state-owned television stations like NTA, in influencing political stability in Nigeria has been a subject of interest and debate. Using a case study approach, this research delves into how NTA Lagos State, as a major state-owned television broadcaster, has impacted political stability in the region. The study will analyze the content, messaging, and programming of NTA Lagos State to understand how it shapes public opinion, political discourse, and perceptions of government activities. Additionally, the research will investigate the extent to which NTA Lagos State serves as a tool for political elites to maintain power or promote democratic values. Furthermore, the research project will examine the relationship between NTA Lagos State and various political actors, including government officials, opposition parties, and civil society groups. By conducting interviews, surveys, and content analysis, the study aims to uncover the dynamics of this relationship and its implications for political stability in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. The findings of this research are expected to contribute to the existing literature on media and political stability in Nigeria, providing insights into the role of state-owned television stations in shaping the political landscape. By focusing on NTA Lagos State, this study will offer a localized perspective on how media influence politics and governance at the state level within the larger Nigerian context. Ultimately, this research project seeks to shed light on the complex interplay between media, politics, and stability in Nigeria, offering a nuanced understanding of the role of NTA Lagos State in shaping public perceptions and political dynamics. The implications of the findings could inform policy decisions, media regulations, and governance practices to enhance political stability and democratic values in Nigeria's Fourth Republic.

Thesis Overview

2.1 INTRODUCTION
Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, which has witnessed four general elections (1999, 2003, 2007, and 2011), is yet to show profound evidence of a growing democracy. All of these elections were marked with controversies, just as their processes and end products encountered credibility and legitimacy crises. Obviously, all of these account for the lack of appropriate policy formulation and effective implementation that are needed for the improvement of the standard of living of the people and development of the country as a whole. The net effect is that the ordinary citizens seem to have gradually lost hope in the system that replaced the military regime, while the rulers and supposed representatives of the people who live in opulence that does not conform to the current economic realities in the country—seem less bothered. Apparently, itmay take some time to feel the full impact of the slight improvement recorded in the conduct of the 2011 general elections.
That the mass media plays a pivotal role in the development process of a country is not a saying. The mass media is generally regarded as channels of communication that are capable of reaching heterogeneous audience simultaneously with uniform message. They regularly cover all sorts of issues economy among others (Meyer 2002, Soola 2004). The mass media transmits ideas and new information to target audience in the society. Tosanisunm, (2004) has observed that the mass media educate, inform and entertain beyond these functions as they also persuade and catalyze for social mobilization. In other
words, the mass media can be regarded as powerful service of information because they have the capability for penetrating every segment of the society. They have the ability to disseminate messages about issue ideas and products. The electronic media which is the focus this study comprises the radio and television. The sophistication of these media of communication distinguished them as the wonders of modern communication. Just as the twentieth century dawned, a system was perfected which electromagnetic impulse could be sent through the air without wires carrying voice transmission over long distance.
Electronic media are the machinery or an institution used for simultaneous transmission of information to a wide and divergent audience. Although the electronic media are channel for which information is transmitted to the audience through the different types of media yet they represent the attempt or man to relate to and interact with other men. It is clear to note the communication has been enhanced nationally and internationally with the use of technology. 13 Aniabona (2007) in his contribution to the impact of broadcasting in a developing context