PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF FEMALE JOURNALISTS AND ITS IMPLICATION ON THEIR PRODUCTIVITY IN BORNO STATE

This study examined public perception of female journalists and its implication on their productivity in Borno State. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and employed a structured questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. A total of 400 respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique from selected communities in Borno State. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. The findings revealed that female journalists are visible In journalism practice in Borno State, particularly in broadcast media, but their level of involvement is still perceived as insufficient, especially in print journalism and recruitment. The study further revealed that female journalists are professionally competent and capable of handling both soft and hard news assignments. However, public perception of female journalists is still influenced by cultural and religious beliefs that promote stereotyping and unequal treatment. The study also established that negative public perception reduces the productivity of female journalists through harassment, discrimination, and restricted access to news sources, whereas positive perception significantly enhances their productivity. The study concluded that public pe”cept’on plays a significant role in shaping the productivity of female journalists in Borno State and recommended gender-inclusive policies, public sensitization, institutional support, and stronger advocacy mechanisms to enhance the productivity and professional advancement of female journalists.