Project Abstract

Abstract
Newspapers play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of a country by providing information, analysis, and opinions on various political issues. This research project focuses on the role of newspapers in the political development of Nigeria, with a specific case study of The Guardian newspaper. The study examines how The Guardian newspaper has influenced political discourse, policymaking, and public opinion in Nigeria. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing content analysis of articles, editorials, and opinion pieces published by The Guardian over a specified period. Additionally, interviews with journalists, editors, and political analysts associated with the newspaper are conducted to gain insights into the editorial process and decision-making regarding political coverage. The findings of the study highlight the significant role of The Guardian in promoting political accountability, transparency, and good governance in Nigeria. The newspaper has been instrumental in exposing corruption, advocating for political reforms, and providing a platform for diverse political voices to be heard. Furthermore, The Guardian's coverage of political events and analysis of government policies have contributed to shaping public opinion and fostering informed citizenry. The study also reveals challenges faced by The Guardian in fulfilling its role as a watchdog of democracy in Nigeria. These challenges include political pressure, financial constraints, and threats to press freedom. Despite these obstacles, The Guardian has remained committed to upholding journalistic integrity and promoting democratic values through its political reporting. Overall, the research underscores the vital role of newspapers, such as The Guardian, in the political development of Nigeria. By providing independent and critical analysis of political issues, newspapers contribute to fostering a vibrant democracy, holding government officials accountable, and empowering citizens to participate in the political process. The findings of this study have implications for media practitioners, policymakers, and civil society organizations seeking to promote political development and democratic governance in Nigeria.

Project Overview

1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background to the Study
The important role media plays in fostering an environment of good governance and political awareness needs hardly be emphasized. As the watchdog and interpreter of public issues and events, the media has a special role in every society. In our information-based society the media has a disproportionately visible and influential role.
Democracy cannot exist in the absence of the press. This is because democracy is based on popular will and popular opinion depends on the public’s awareness and knowledge. It is the mass media that brings up, promotes and propagates public awareness. The main responsibility of the press is to provide comprehensive, analytical and factual news and opinion to the people on everyday issues and events of popular concern. To fulfill its duty and responsibility, the press must work according to the fundamental principles of professional ethics, as well as norms and values of journalism.
Democracy can neither be sustainable nor strong without a free press. On the other hand, press freedom will not be possible without democracy. Therefore, the mass media and journalists must be committed to democracy. For this, the press must be perpetually involved in the establishment and promotion of a democratic culture. The press must remain ever vigilant to protect and enforce people’s freedom of thought and expression and citizens’ right to all information relating to the various aspects of their life and future. The fact that access to information is a citizen’s right must be taken to heart, and information must be presented in a simple and palatable manner. Right to information is inherent in democratic functioning and a pre-condition for good governance and the realization of all other human rights, including education and health care. The main objectives should be the promotion of transparency and accountability in governance so as to minimize corruption and
inefficiency in public office and to ensure the public’s participation in governance and decision making.
Media must be credible and trustworthy. Trust is the most valuable asset for any media. Once lost, it cannot be earned back. It is for this reason that all media must uphold their principles to provide accurate and factual news and other programmes.
Press must understand the difference between politics in general and party politics. Media should not be a vehicle, or used as an advocate for any political party or ideology. Public and political issues should be clearly understood, analyzed and presented in an impartial manner. During elections / political campaigns, equal time slots or opportunity must be allocated to each of the legitimate political parties and candidates. In the course of elections, messages that encourage goodwill and harmony among all the ethnic groups, religions, genders, cultures, languages, regions and communities should be broadcast.
Media plays the role of watch-dog in reporting corruption, complacency and negligence. In a changing, competitive landscape, compliance to good governance has never been taken so seriously, as people demand more transparency from both the government and private sectors. Responsible practices from government, universal principles on human rights and the fight against corruption have assumed great importance.