NEWSPAPER COVERAGE ON JAPA SYNDROME IN NIGERIA

Student: Stephanie Shagawa Gadzama
Supervisor: Prof Andrew Asan Ate
Co-Supervisor: Mr Nill Nill Nil
HOD: Dr Daniel Akpor Ewomazino
Department of Mass Communication
Art and Information
Edo State University Iyamho

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigates the portrayal and coverage of the "Japa Syndrome" by selected Nigerian newspapers, Daily Trust, The Nation, Vanguard, The Punch, and The Sun. The term "Japa Syndrome" refers to the increasing trend of Nigerians emigrating in search of better socio-economic opportunities abroad. The research aims to examine the frequency, prominence, and format of reportage adopted by these newspapers in covering the phenomenon. Anchored on the Agenda-Setting Theory, the study adopts content analysis to evaluate newspaper publications over a specified period. The findings reveal that the newspapers give moderate prominence to the issue, with a significant focus on straight news formats. While the coverage indicates awareness of the trend, there is limited depth in investigative or interpretative reporting. The study concludes by recommending enhanced journalistic efforts in covering migration trends, suggesting that more comprehensive and analytical reports could inform public discourse and policy decisions

Full-Text Access Notice

In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication. During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.

Request authorisation from the author