Censorship and Trust in Media Sources

Nigeria is far from achieving a fully free media, as censorship is widespread and the repercussions of speaking out against the government can be severe.

Flagging Nigerian Attitudes Toward the US

Anti-U.S. sentiment is particularly high in the Muslim north of the country, where most of Nigeria's Hausa ethnic groups reside.

Nigeria: Spotlight on Freedom FM

The success of Freedom FM, a popular new radio station based in the northern city of Kano, reflects broader trends on Nigerian airwaves. Freedom FM has capitalized on the rise of indigenous-language private broadcasting focused on niche audiences. Their willingness to tackle controversial topics and cover a broad range of viewpoints has earned them respect and praise from listeners.

Survey Shows Importance of Religion to Nigerians

Religious life has a ubiquitous presence in Nigeria with Islam and Christianity being the two major faith blocks concentrated along the north and south regions.  Nigerians describe themselves as "strong believers" and their religious practices reflect a very dovout country.

Keeping Informed About Disease in Nigeria

Nigerians are fairly knowledgeable about ways to prevent the spread of malaria and HIV/AIDS. But there is a dangerous gap between knowledge and the financial or material means to apply it. 

Nigerian Radio Reflects Diversity

Radio is the country's media star, with most Nigerians reliant on it for news, music, religious programming and other information. The market is highly fragmented, reflecting a country with more than 250 languages and multiple cultures.

Booming Cell Phone Use in Nigeria

Market liberalization has fueled a sharp rise in cell phone use, though rural Nigerians lag well behind their urban counterparts. Internet use, meanwhile, remains hobbled by the country's underdeveloped fiber optic infrastructure.