Assessment of Digital Communication Technologies (DCTS) in Newspaper Publishing in Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of DCTs on newspaper publishing within selected Nigerian newspapers. It focuses on
four newspapers, two publicly owned and two privately owned. The research utilizes a mixed methods approach,
combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies. In response to the investigation on the forms of DCTs used in
Nigerian newspaper publishing, findings reveal a spectrum of technologies employed, notably e-mail, phone calls,
instant messaging, video conferencing, video, blog, podcast, streaming, e-newspaper, and web newspaper. The
prevalence of e-newspapers stands out prominently among the identified forms. Interview responses align with the
questionnaire findings, emphasizing the diverse use of DCTs. Examples include the shift to online-based platforms,
preference for e-copies, and the facilitation of news gathering and dissemination through digital channels. Regarding
the areas of DCT usage within newspaper organizations, the study identifies newsgathering, news processing, and
news dissemination as primary domains. Notably, news dissemination emerges as the predominant area benefiting
from DCTs. Interview insights reinforce the significance of DCTs across these areas, enabling easy access to online
news sources, facilitating information sourcing, and transforming the production process through enhanced aesthetics
and design. The study concludes that the relevance of DCTs in Nigerian newspaper publishing cannot be overunderscored. While certain forms of DCTs like e-newspapers are extensively utilized, others remain underutilized.
News dissemination sees the most pronounced impact, while opportunities for improvement exist in newsgathering
and processing. The study recommends among other things that Newspaper Proprietors’ Association (NPAN) should
encourage broader utilization of various DCTs in newspaper publishing