ABSTRACT THIS STUDY ASSESSED THE EFFECT OF 2023 FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL AND JOURNALISM PRACTICE IN MAKURDI METROPOLIS. THE STUDY SOUGHT TO ASCERTAIN THE WAYS REMOVAL OF FUEL SUBSIDY AFFECTS JOURNALISM PRACTICE IN MAKURDI METROPOLIS. THE STUDY IS ANCHORED ON

ABSTRACT This study assessed the effect of 2023 fuel subsidy removal and journalism practice in Makurdi metropolis. The study sought to ascertain the ways removal of fuel subsidy affects journalism practice in Makurdi metropolis. The study is anchored on the Social Responsibility Theory and Agenda Setting Theory. Survey research method was employed using questionnaire as instrument for data collection. Findings revealed that the increase in fuel prices affected journalism practice in the following ways: reduced broadcast hours, decreased signal strength, lower programming quality, increased downtime, reduced news coverage, decreased staff strength, increased reliance on wire services. Findings also revealed the solutions to the challenges of journalism practice since the removal of fuel subsidy include measures such as diversified revenue streams, improved financial planning and exploring alternative fuel sources. The study concludes that the 2023 fuel subsidy removal affected journalism practice by rising operational costs and shifts in news creation and consumption patterns which have challenged traditional reporting structures. The study therefore recommends that journalists in Makurdi metropolis should implement energy efficient measures such as using energy-efficient equipment and reducing energy consumption to minimize operational expenses. It also recommends that media houses should explore public-private partnerships to access funding, expertise, and resources, enabling them to improve their services and remain sustainable in a subsidy-free environment.