Abstract: This study examines the gender disparity in sports journalism: challenges and opportunities for female reporters in Nigerian media, focusing on NTA Akure and Adaba FM. Anchored in Agenda Setting Theory, which asserts that the media shapes public discourse. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected through self-administered questionnaires distributed to all 43 female staff at the two broadcast stations. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage, were used for data analysis. The major findings reveal that female reporters contribute minimally to sports journalism in these media houses due to factors such as gender disparity, cultural constraints, and security concerns. The study also found that editorial policies often do not support female participation in sports reporting. Additionally, the nature of sports journalism, which is perceived as a male domain, further hinders female journalists’ involvement. The study recommended providing equal opportunities for female reporters to cover various sports, offering specialized training and mentorship, encouraging coverage of diverse sports, and promoting women to leadership roles within sports journalism organizations. These measures are essential to foster an inclusive and equitable environment that enhances the contributions of female reporters in sports journalism.
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background to the Study
In our society today, it has been observed that there is gender disparity in all quarters, mass media is not an exception and of all aspects of journalism, few female reporters are being heard in sport desk. It is generally estimated that the percentage of women in the journalism profession in Nigeria is exceptionally low while those in sport is very low.
Sports journalism is a dynamic field that has traditionally been dominated by male voices. However, over the years, the landscape has witnessed a significant shift as more and more female reporters are breaking through barriers and making their mark in the industry. Nigeria, with its rich sporting culture and passion for athletics, has seen a commendable rise of female sports journalists who have played a pivotal role in reshaping the narrative and diversifying perspectives within sports journalism (Joseph 2000).
Nigeria’s female sports journalists have defied societal norms and shattered glass ceilings, proving that gender is not a limitation in the world of sports reporting. Notably, Bukola Olopade made history by becoming one of the first female sports reporters in Nigeria, establishing herself as a trailblazer for future generations. Her determination and dedication set the stage for others to follow in her footsteps (Adepoju, 2015).
Female sports journalists in Nigeria have played a crucial role in changing the way sports stories are told. They bring a unique perspective to their reporting, often highlighting aspects of athletes’ lives and experiences that might have been overlooked by their male counterparts. Their empathetic and in-depth coverage has enriched the discourse around sports and athletes, providing a more holistic understanding of the sporting world (Adepoju, 2015).
Nigerian female sports journalists have not only elevated the status of sports journalism but have also acted as role models for aspiring athletes, especially young women. By providing a platform for female athletes’ stories to be heard, these journalists have encouraged young girls to pursue their dreams in sports, breaking down gender stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive sporting environment (Onyeka, 2020).
It is important to acknowledge that Nigerian female sports journalists have faced their fair share of challenges. From gender bias to unequal opportunities, their journey has been marked by resilience and determination. However, these challenges have only strengthened their resolve to excel in their field and create a lasting impact.
However, the advent of digital media has further expanded the reach and influence of Nigerian female sports journalists. Social media platforms, podcasts, and online publications have provided them with avenues to connect with audiences on a global scale, amplifying their voices and creating a more inclusive space for sports enthusiasts (Joseph 2000).
Overall, Nigerian female sports journalists have made remarkable strides in a traditionally male-dominated industry, challenging norms and enriching the discourse around sports journalism. Through their dedication, perseverance, and unique perspectives, they have paved the way for greater gender equality and diversity in the world of sports reporting. Their impact extends beyond the realm of journalism, inspiring future generations of athletes and journalists alike. As the field continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of these trailblazing women who have reshaped the narrative of sports journalism in Nigeria. It is against this backdrop that the research examines gender disparity in sports journalism: challenges and opportunities for female reporters in Nigerian media using NTA and Adaba FM Akure.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Sport is considered to be men dominant activities and business especially the outdoor sports such as football, basketball, folly ball, wrestling etc with women as spectators. Also, those that coordinate sports such as referee, linemen etc including the reporters, sport doctors and several others are dominated by men, making sport men affairs.
Therefore, despite the fact that there is considerably good number of trained female journalists, few of them are working with media houses in Nigeria and only a very few are sport journalists. In fact, many broadcast house does not have a single female sport reporter, analyst or presenter the reason is not far fetch as men maintain their dominance and assert their control on the industry, thus creating an atmosphere of total dominance of the profession and continue to set ‘limits and the extent’ to which women are involved in the practice of journalism.
Other limitations include but not limited to culture and religion among others because in many culture and religion, women are not expected to part take in men affairs and work considered too risky.
It is against this background that the research examines gender disparity in sports journalism: challenges and opportunities for female reporters in Nigerian media with a case study of NTA Akure and Adaba FM Akure.
1.3 Research Questions
- To what extent do female reporters contribute to sport journalism in NTA and Adaba FM Akure?
- What factor (s) hampering effective performance and participation of female reporters in sport journalism?
- Do female sport reporters compete favourablely with their male counterpart in sport desk?
- Why few female reporters are in sport journalism?\In what ways can more female sport reporters participate in sport reporting, commentary and analysis?
1.4 Objectives of the Study
- To examine female reporters contribution to the sport journalism in NTA and Adaba FM Akure.
- To examine factor(s) hampering effective performance and participation of female reporters in sport journalism and proffer solutions.
- To ascertain whether female sport reporters are competing favourablely with their male counterpart in sport desk.
- To examine some of the reasons for few female reporters in sport journalism.
- To examine strategies that will encourage more female sport reporters to participate in sport reporting, commentary and analysis.
1.5 Significance of the Study
Research: Limitations of this research will open a door for new research since research is cyclical in nature.
Knowledge: The core significance of the study is to add to the body of knowledge in mass communication and fill the gap in the area of role of Nigeria female reporters in journalism. It serves as a reference material for future researchers and students who might want to carry out a related research on gender performance in media organization and other related topics.
Media Organisation: The study will help to provide adequate insight to meet the changing demands in the dynamic media environment of our society hereby helping media managers and practitioners to make better policies. Media manager should as a matter of fact train and recruit female sport reporters, presenters, analysis and commentators as this will add flavor to their media sport quality and encourage women viewing and listening habit to sport.
1.6 Scope of the Study
The research has been narrowed in scope to Adaba FM and NTA, Akure since it is very difficult if not impossible to study all media organizations across the country due to time available for the study, fund, materials and other logistics.
Therefore, the demography factor of the duo television stations will be considered before the structuring and administration of the research instrument (questionnaire), such demographical factor include but not limited to age, marital status, sex, education level, religion, work experience, position in the organization and so on.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Role: It means the impact, contribution, achievement of women in the practice of broadcast media.
Women Journalist: This is a mature female choosing journalism as a career.
Broadcast Media: Broadcast media are means of transmission which enable audio, audio-visual of information, message, idea, to a wider number of people listening or viewing usually simultaneously examples are radio and television.
Sport reporter: This is the work of collecting writing and publishing of news stories and articles in newspapers and magazines or broadcasting them on radio and television to inform the general public on things happening in the world.
“gender disparity in sports journalism: challenges and opportunities for female reporters in Nigerian media
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