ABSTRACT

This study holds that for the period under study, government expenditure has not significantly impacted the Nigerian economy. From the findings observed, when the economy is assessed from the angle of RGDP, the effect of TEDU, THEL, and TAGR is observed to be all insignificant, but positive; while TPDS is shown to have an also insignificant but negative effect. This further implies that TPDS have not supported economic growth (RGDP) in Nigeria. It also implies that TEDU, THEL and TAGR have been more efficient as they support economic growth (RGDP) – though at an insignificant level. Hence, this study holds that TEDU, THEL, TPDS and TAGR (as measures of government expenditure) exert mixed effects on economic growth (RGDP) in Nigeria.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of Study

Most developing countries of the world adapt government expenditure as the most important policy instruments for promoting growth and equitable distribution. It is widely acknowledged and most of these countries that government expenditure is used to improve technology, human capital and infrastructure necessary for growth and also provide the incentives and enabling environment promote private-sector investment in order to further growth.

In 1963, Keynes argued that the solution to economic depression is achieved by persuading the firms to invest through reduction of interest rates and government capital investment which include infrastructure is. Nowadays, the majority of industrialized and emerging Nations employ public spending to alter the composition of natural income improve income distribution and the resources allocation in desirable directions (world bank 2008). Through the government numerous initiatives and inventions with his Ministries and departments and agencies (MDAs), public sector spending has been rising in exponential terms. Although it is often believed that government expenditure particularly on social and economic infrastructure can promote growth funding search spending to provide necessary infrastructural teachers for the government can actually show growth.

In developing countries, for instance, the variation in government spending pattern is not only projected to guarantee establishment but also to spur economic growth and expand employment opportunities.  The scope and composition of government expenditure will determine the pace and direction of economic growth. (Taiwo & Abayomi 2011). According to Bhatia(2008), government Expenditure entails expenses incurred by the government in carrying out Capital projects. Government expenditure also refers to expenses incurred by the government for the maintenance of itself and provision of public goods and services and work needed to Foster economic growth and improve the welfare of its citizens.

Government expenditure is the government spending from revenue derived from tax, levies and other revenue sources. Government spending on various sectors (federal, state and local Government) have different effect on the economic growth. (Yusut etal 2015). Meanwhile the two divergent views on the discuss of government spending as stipulated in fiscal policy need to be mentioned.

The instrument of government expenditure is used to  achieve macro-economic objectives like full employment, price stability and sustained economic growth. The government also uses his expenditure to provide public  goods like education, health, agriculture, public debt service, infrastructures etc. Which helps reduce socio-economic imbalances. Muritala, Taiwo A. (2011), commented that government expenditure is a foreskin instruments that choose a valuable rule in controlling inflection, unemployment, depression,  the balance of payment Equilibrium and foreign exchange rate stability. Bingular, P. and Oyandunghan. J. ( 2020) states that government spending is used to raise aggregate demand in period of depression and unemployment, further stimulating employment and output. Although government influences in the economy does not  automatically guarantee stability. However, it reduces the rate of instability for instance, government  involved in the economy did not prevent  the oil shock of 1970s, the financial crisis of 2007, Nigeria economic recession of 2016 or the global recession of 2020. However government investment makes it easy for Nations to bounce back after the sharks.

The role of government in the economy has become more relevant in developing countries where income, output and employment are low. This countries are characterized by internal and external imbalances and instability. Lack of social amenities, poor human development and high poverty rates, thus making government an essential agent of reducing the social-economic problems these countries faces.

Bingilar, P. and Oyadonghan J.(2020) also mention that developing country governments have embarked on various spending programs to achieve economic growth. Hence economic growth represents the expansion of a country gross domestic product (GDP). Growth means increase in economic activities. According to Todano(1995) citing Kuznets defined a country economic growth as a long-term rise in capacity to supply increasingly diverse economic grade its population, this growth capacity based on advances in technology and the institutional and ideological adjustment that is demand. Economic growth is an increase in income over time. It is a positive change in the level of production of goods and services over a certain period of time. Expenditure pattern of the government usually are categorized into recurrent and capital expenditure according to the flow chart of government block by (mord, 2010). The former correspondent to government purchase of current goods and services (known consumables, wages and salary, etc) while the later you would ideally include not merely investment in infrastructure (rails, schools hospitals etc) but also all other expenditure that might contribute to development. In other words, recurrent expenditure refers to financial at least necessary for the day-to-day running of government business, the capital expenditure on the other hand refers to investment outlet that increases the assert of the state. The large Quantum of funds injected into the economy by the Nigerian government to finance the reoccurrence and capital expenditure has therefore led to the increase in aggregate money supply without the corresponding stability of the macro-economic variable (employment, unemployment rate, interest rate, balance of payments, consumer index, growth domestic product etc. Julia and when you come out 2013 Cycles in2016. the major instrument by which the government can ensure an effective growth in economic activity are

1. Expenditure that and used a firm or workers to produce certain goods and services.
2. Regulation and control that Direct people performance or desist for economic growth to attend economic growth.

iii. Taxes that reduces private consumption or investment and thereby French resources for public expenditure.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The Nigerian expenditure status has continuously past years from level of millions to many trillions of naira. Nigeria been among the developing Nations yet the increased government spending spending seems not to have results in real growth and progress. Furthermore there are indication that perform well. The microeconomic index including the balance of payments imports obligations inflation rate exchange rate and issues with national saving show that Nigeria has not done well in canonical full stop the growth of government expenditure in Nigeria according to buhari 1993 as cited by o guru 2009 is the little among the factors rising income level organisation of the population technology and innovative change in political and the real kratz structure and the productivity lag. The decline in government and in from 28 15.2 million 4 in 1978 to 2003 1.6 million in 1979 and from this in 1970 82 to 29 million in 1984 from non all roof cbn 1994 unlimited domestic saving narrowed the revenue base for hi Jackson public sector operations the results to borrowing for financing large government budgetary deficient listal macroeconomic problem as excessive just boarding both domestic and foreign high inflationary pressure is change rate of a operation and external imbalance. Public sector borrowing from the domestic credit market also tends to crowd out private sector investment adebisi 1999. Couple days is duplicated infrastructural especially roads and power supply that has led to the collapse of many Industries including high level of unemployment. At the new Dean of Millennium African in general and Nigeria in particular surface monumental development like low level of income characterized by Low per capita income inequality for health inadequate education and inadequate power agricultural facilities. All these are consequences of poverty in Nigeria present in Paradise the country is rich but the people are poor. Nigeria which is rich in land or a people and natural gas resources that Nigeria has been they lived with debt problem. The better reality of the Nigerian situation is not yet that the poverty line is getting worse by the day but more than 14 of Nigerian lives in condition of extreme poverty of less than 320 Mera Kuch belly provide for a quarter of the nutritional requirements for health living. Several empirical findings have also proven to be inconsistent. No concessions has been established on the exact relationship between government expenditure and economic growth empirical studies have produced divergent results full stuff for instant IB pyp 2020 find that government capital expenditure was University Hyundai related to real gross domestic product GDP in the short run and the long run full stop in study by Polo g CK and Andrew new 2014 shows inverse relationship between government expenditure and health and economic growth. Inconstancy you serve as a BB and a commode n&s my 2015 found out that none of the component of government expenditure and contributes to economic growth in the short run. Therefore it is imperative to examine for the the government expenditure and its effort on the economic growth in Nigeria.

1.3. Objectives of the Study

The major objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of government expenditure on economic growth between 2001 to 2020. while the specific goals of the study include to;

1. Assess the extent to which expenditure on education(EDU) a do affect economic growth.
2. Examine the extent to which government expenditure on health(HLT) affect economic growth.
3. Evaluate the extent to which public debt servicing(PDS) affect economic growth.
4. Determine the efforts of government expenditure on agriculture(AGR) on income growth

1.4 Research questions

1. Does government expenditure on education influence economic growth in Nigeria?
2. What is the significant relationship between government expenditure on health and economic growth in Nigeria
3. What is the significant relationship between government expenditure on public bus service
4. That’s government expenditure on agriculture have statistic effort and economic growth in Nigeria

1.5 Hypothesis of the study

Ho:That government expenditure and education does not influence economic growth and Nigeria

Hi: that government expenditure and education influence economic growth in Nigeria

Ho: there is no significant relationship between government expenditure on health and economic growth in Nigeria.

Hi: there is significant relationship between government expenditure and health and economic growth in Nigeria.

Ho: there is significant relationship between government expenditure and on public debt servicing saving

Hi: where is no relationship between government expenditure and public debt servicing

Ho: that government expenditure on agriculture sure has statistic effect on economic growth in Nigeria

1.6.  Scope of the study

The content of this today exam is mainly relationship or efforts of government expenditure on economic growth of Nigeria for a period of 20 years region 2001 to 2020 it is the purpose of the study studies to examine the scope of Federal Government spending. This may seem a simple matter of accident of the expenditure of the various federal agencies. Government expenditure is not limited too managing finance it also Focuses on maintaining the proper infrastructure contributing to the National economy reducing unemployment ranging the financial pillars of the economy reducing unemployment managing the financial pillars of the economy operating the hygiene and cleanliness in the nation analyses task collection ensuring the burden of tax is not very high monitoring and enforcing the implementation of the financial and fiscal policy maintaining the confidence of the public at large etc.

The dependent variable which is economic growth is crossed by a real gross domestic product LG dp132 don’t variable government expenditure proved by total government expenditure on education total government expenditure on health health then-22 government expenditure and public debt servicing tpds and total government expenditure and agriculture cagr. The independent variable we are selected because they are the core government expenditure variable that may have a direct nation ship with economic growth within the given Nigeria contest contest

1.7. Significance of the study

The findings of this study will be beneficiary and also in lighting at all level federal state and local government and how their spending activities if the dictionary and located and monitored would bring about a desirable level of economic growth it also seeks to make the general public aware of the spending operation of the government this will ensure effective and efficient resources utilisation by the government there by bringing Nigeria’s short-term and long-term Development Goals to reality. This rituals work will be useful addition to the existing study on the effort of government on economic growth however the study is different from previous studies in school and unlike other studies that examine the effort of the total government expenditure and economic growth this study looks at the dis-aggregated effort of government expenditure on economic growth and it is intended to be of relevance to policy decision-makers government investors members of the public etc

1.8. Limitation of the study

Financial constants inadequate funds hinders delegates data collection source affecting the free flow of this research work

10 constructions with an opportunity for this study was not indefinite has the researcher was constrained to the limited time frame specified for the study and also the pursuit of order academic works affect the time devoted in this work but this challenge was handled by the researcher buy currently planning to meet at time to carry out this study

Information constraints the researcher encountered different difficulties in sourcing relevant data for this study because some relevant data for the study we are not readily available to the researcher full-stop however in order to solve this challenge the researcher solicited help from senior colleagues and other interest services

Other academic obligation the researcher was in the most of focusing on this study and also paying attention to other academic obligations. But all situation was solved by the research by opportunity balance time from this study and other academic engagement.

1. Operational definition of terms

Government: Is the continuous exercise of authority over and the performance of functions for a political unit.

Expenditure: Expenditure refers to payment made on liabilities in cured in exchange for goods and services.

Growth:  This refers as a process of transformation

Government expenditure: This refers to expenses in cured by the government for the maintenance of itself and provision of public goods services and works needed to Foster or promote economic growth and improve the welfare of people in the society

Economic Growth: Economic growth is an increase in output or income over time it is a positive change in the level of production of goods and services over certain period of time.

Fiscal Policy: Fiscal policy is the use of government spending and tax policy to influence economic conditions, especially macro-economic conditions, including aggregate demand for goods and services, employment inflation and economic growth.

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Pages:  58

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF               

Chapters: 1-5                                          

Source: Imsuinfo

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

The research explores the response of Imo State University, Owerri undergraduates to a Boss Fm Jingles awareness program against Meth (Mkpurummiri) Drug Abuse. The study combines both qualitative and quantitative research methods, employing in-depth interviews and a descriptive survey research method. The data collected in the field is analyzed using SPSS. The introduction in Chapter one outlines the background of meth drug abuse, its definition by various scholars, and campaigns against drug abuse. The focus is on evaluating the influence of Boss Fm Jingles on drug abuse, establishing research objectives, and posing research questions. The relevant concepts, including a literature review, drug abuse concepts, the concept of meth, causes of drug abuse, the concept of radio, drug abuse campaigns on radio/social media, theoretical frameworks, and a summary of the literature review. The design and methods employed in the study, opting for an explanatory mixed-method approach (survey and in-depth interview) with a sample size of 147. Questionnaires and interview guides were administered to Imo State University undergraduates.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

The rampant use of drugs like meth (mkpurummiri), marijuana, alcohol, cocaine and many more among youths is a serious issue that has become a tragedy, drawing the attention and concern of the entire nation. This problem made the then Military Government of Nigeria to promulgate a Decree No 48 of the 1989, which established the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Since then, pages of newspapers, the television, the radio, magazines and journals have been “littered” with the reports of one form of drug abuse or the other. The abuse of drugs, which was originally conceived as the problems of a few individuals, is today becoming a disease of a sizeable proportion of our citizens, (Folawiyo, 2015). He also added that, the problem is so grave that it has extended beyond the usual characteristic profile of abusers being male, adult and urban-based to now include females, youngsters and those who live in towns and rural areas. Essen (2016) observed that the increasing incidence of drug abuse among School Students is a contributory factor in the ugly confrontation between school administrators and students.

Mkpurummiri is the slang coined from the Igbo language, which is loosely translated as ‘seed of water’. In reality, it is a crystal narcotic hallucinogen, medically known as Methamphetamine or by its street name Crystal Meth. It has a chalk-like crystal form and can sometimes be blue hence the name ‘mkpurummiri’. It is a man-made drug developed during World War II, used by soldiers to stay awake or carry out dangerous suicidal missions. It’s highly addictive nature makes a chemically similar drug, amphetamine – used to treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder – highly regulated and only available by prescription. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, has said a Nigerian drug syndicate is supplying Crystal Meth popularly known as ‘MkpuruMmiri’, to South Africa.According to UNODC World Drug Report 2021, the traffickers have set up two major transnational supply routes from Nigeria and Afghanistan through which the deadly narcotic is trafficked to Western Cape Province, South Africa.The report estimated that almost four percent of the global population aged 15-64 years, used cannabis at least once in 2019.Many youths in the South-East were said to be addicted to MkpuruMmiri, which is widely sold in many urban areas in the region.

The radio is considered to be one of the most powerful information dissemination medium available to the mass communicator. It is considered to be one of the most effective for development communication purposes especially in the rural areas (Ojebode&Adegbola, 2017). This is because radio waves are easily accessible and the radio is believed to be the cheapest technology in terms of first and maintenance costs. An important consideration here is how the audience perceive and are influenced by the radio messages. Radio is the chosen medium because it is relatively cheap and available, there is also an adequate radio broadcasting infrastructure in Nigeria which has existed since the 1940’s (Umar 2026) Also, and most importantly, the eastern audience is considered to be essentially a listening audience (Emerenu, 2015). It is against this backdrop that this study was conducted in order to analyse Influence of Boss Fm Jingles on Meth (Mkpurummiri) abuse among Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates.

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Time without number both teachers and parents are complaining bitterly about students involvement in drug abuse and their attitude to learning. Inspite of all the efforts made by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to reduce the problem of drug abuse that may affect so many aspects of adolescent life the problem still persist particularly among adolescent in Imo sate Metropolis. Drug abuse is a pandemic problem and it increases in an alarming rate in Nigeria today. About two decades ago, incidence of drug trafficking in Nigeria was low and abuse was minimal, but today drug abuse has destroyed and killed many people in the society. During this period It was mostly the university undergraduates that were caught and the first to be executed for drug offences under the “special tribunal (miscellaneous offences) Degree NO 20 1984. Nevertheless, the usage of drug either by students or other members of the larger society is all its ramifications appear to be a social problem. This is a critical problem which affects the society as it hampers the academic performance of students who are expected to develop and become leaders of tomorrow. The students who are the youth and the future hope of the society have created a social problem of engaging in hard drug that can be destruction to their academic endeavors.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

Specifically, the study seeks to:

1. To examine the influence of Meth (Mkpurummiri) substance abuse on student’s academic performance of Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates
2. To identify the type of drugs and substances are commonly abused by the Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates

• To determine the factors responsible for Meth (Mkpurummiri) substance abuse among students of the University

1. To indicate preventive measures against Meth (Mkpurummiri) substance abuse amongst students of the university

1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study on “Influence of Boss Fm Jingles on Meth (Mkpurummiri) abuse among Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates ” has theoretical and practical relevance. This will significantly contribute to the existing theories and methodology on drug and substance abuse in Nigeria, also beyond Nigeria, among the students of Nigerian higher institutions, and most especially among the students of the Imo State University. The study will help in justifying the authenticity of the findings of previous studies on Meth (Mkpurummiri) abuse in Nigeria and at the Imo State University in particular. It will also help in improving the written literature base of drug and substance abuse. The study will also contribute to the already existing knowledge/literatures which are going to assist the students of Nigerian higher institutions in ‘understanding the extent, causes, consequences and solution to drug abuse. The data generated from the study will be used by subsequent researchers to explore alternative ways of reducing drastically or putting to a halt, the phenomenon of drug and substance abuse in the Nigerian higher institutions especially among imo state University students. This study will help in testing the empirical and practical validity of the theory guiding this study. It will equally be useful in ascertaining whether the adopted methodology for a study on drug and substance abuse is adequate. The findings of this study will be of benefits to guidance and counseling teachers by learning how to deal with students who abuse drug and substance. Policy makers in the ministry of education and other stakeholders will use this information on abuse of drugs and substance so as to form appropriate policy decisions in betting this vide that has a negative effect on academic performance. Parents and guardians may benefits from this study by getting ideas on their children’s intake of drugs so as to be better placed to ensure good upcoming of these children. Finally, the study will open new research gaps that may be useful for future research initiatives in this area of study by scholars.

1.5 RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS

This project work is to provide enough information as regards toInfluence of Boss Fm Jingles on Meth (Mkpurummiri) abuse among Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates.it is necessary to test the following hypothesis:

H ₀There is no significant relationship between the influenceof Meth (Mkpurummiri) substance abuse on student’s academic performance of Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates

H ₁ There is significant relationship between the influence of Meth (Mkpurummiri) substance abuse on student’s academic performance of Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates

H ₀ There is no significant relationship between the influence of Meth (Mkpurummiri) substance abuse on student’s academic performance of Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates

H ₂ There is significant relationship between the influence of Meth (Mkpurummiri) substance abuse on student’s academic performance of Imo State University, Owerri Undergraduates

1.5 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION TERMS

(a) Drug: A drug is a chemical substance capable of altering the physical and psychological function of the body.

(b) Meth :it is a crystal narcotic hallucinogen, medically known as Methamphetamine or by its street name Crystal Meth.

(c) Abuse: This means the misuse of something. It can also be described as the illegal use of something.

(d) Drug Abuse: This is the misuse of drugs. It could be defined as the illegal use of substance which interferes with the human behavior.

(e) Effects: This could be defined as consequences. It is also the power to produce result.

 1.6 ASSUMPTIONS

In assuming the study, the likely are assumed and the action to take or how to go about such problem is assumed.

1. The Boss FM Jingles RadioProgram has been assumed to be the best medium to affect or influence the students of Imo University. It is seen as the best that can be used to educate the view of enlighten the people in terms of their health and social wellbeing.
2. It has been assumed that effectiveness of drug abuseprogramme depends on the presentation i.e. if the programme is well packaged, if the times of the programme tallies with the time students are at home and if the presentation is perfect.
3. It is also assumed that the influence of boss FM jingles on meth (Mkpurummiri) abuse among Imo state university, Owerri undergraduates is positive but has its short comings too. These positive impact and shortcoming are studied to get the kind of effects that can influence the students.

1.7 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

In the cause of this study, the researcher was faced with a number of problems. Among the short comings includes, financial constraint, which prevented the researcher from carrying out his study in details. Time factor had also been one of the greatest constraint.

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Pages:  60

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF               

Chapters: 1-5                                          

Source: Imsuinfo

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of social media on the student’s academic performance [A study of students of University of Abuja]. The research therefore, adopted the survey method in data collection. Base on the data obtained from the office of the registrar of University of Abuja, the population of study of the entire students of the University of Abuja for 2012/2013 academic session is 6,000. Using the simple random sampling technique, four faculties were selected. They were Law, Sciences, Arts, Social sciences and Management. Using the purposive sampling technique, the researcher purposively selected a sample size of 150 respondents from the four faculties. Faculty of Law contributed a sample size of 40 respondents, Faculty of Sciences contributed a sample size of 40 respondents, Faculty of Arts contributed a sample size of 40 respondents, and Faculty of Management contributed a sample size of 30 respondents. Therefore, the sample size for the study were 150 respondents.  A total number of twenty (20) items were drawn and administered to the respondents. They were divided into two sections; section A contained items on the demography of respondents and section B answered the research questions. The questionnaire used for this study was thoroughly scrutinized by the supervisor for clarity, precision, and comprehension. Data was collected using the questionnaire which the researcher administered face to face to the respondents. Out of 150 copies of questionnaire distributed to the respondents, 130 copies were retrieved. This represented a response rate of 86.7%. Simple tables, frequency and percentages were adopted in the presentation and analysis of the data generated for the study. These statistical tools were used because they were suitable means of breaking down and analyzing the generated data. Four research questions guided the study. Research findings showed that a great number of students in University of Abuja, had access to the internet. To this end, the researcher recommended that sites should be created for educational purposes as well. This is to create a balance between social networking and academic activities of students to avoid setbacks in the academic performance of the students. 

CHAPTER ONE

Background of the Study

Modern Technology in communication no doubt has turned the entire world into a “Global Village”. But as it is, technology like two sides of a coin, bring with it both the negative and positive sides. It helps people to be better informed, enlightened, and keeping abreast with world developments. Technology exposes mankind to a better way of doing things.

The world’s first commercial space communication company created by the United State

Congress in 1962 was the communication satellite corporation (COMSAT). In 1964, the United State Government and eleven (11) foreign Nations signed a space communication pact. The partnership was known as “International Telecommunication Satellite Organization (INTELSAT).

The internet known as the worlds “Information Super Highway” is a worldwide assemblage of Inter- Connected Computer Networks (Andrew, 2005).

In the view of Paul (2010, p.301), internet is a massive “network of networks”, a networking infrastructure which connects millions of computers together globally, forming a network in which any computer can communicate with each other as long as they are both connected to internet. The network consist of local area network (LAN), connecting computers in the same building while wide area network (WANs) connecting several LANs in different locations. It connects both private, commercial, Government and Academic network including a grown number of home computer. (Retrieved November 3^rd 2012) www.webopedia.com/Did you know/internet/2002/web-vs.-internet-asp).

According to Andrew (2005, p.284), “Information travels over the internet through a variety of language known as “Protocols”. The term “internet” is actually a short form for “internet networks”, which implies that internet is a network of computer networks. Computer accepts data, process it, stores it and give it out when required. It became possiblefor people to chat from ‘terminals’ which led to networking. A line is the part along which resources flow, while a Node is the point where lines intersect transferring resources to new lines.(Retrieved November 7^th 2012) www.glreach.com/globalstates.

History of the Internet

There are conflicting versions about the origin of the internet but the common story is that the internet is a product of a cold war. (Hafner and Lyon, 1996, p.116). Its origin is traced back to

1957, when the Soviet Union launched ‘Sputnik 1 into space, as a reaction to this, in 1958, the United State founded the Advanced Research Project Agency (ARPA), a special agency under the department of defense whose mission was to develop a long term highly innovative and hazard research projects (Cartoni and Tarding, 2006, p.26).

In 1962, the air force wanting to maintain the military’s ability to transfer information around the country even if a given area was destroyed in an enemy’s attack, commissioned leading computer scientist to do so. ARPANET, the first prototype of the internet, was developed by the ARPA department and saw the light in 1969 when four (4) of United States Universities

(University of California Los Angeles, University of California Santa Barbara, Stanford Research Institute Polo Atto, and University of Utah) were connected by network of computers (Lorenzo and Stefano,2010).

Leonard Klein rock of UCLA successfully developed the first computer network through “packet switching” to the concept of “distributed network”, two fundamental concurrent inventions in the field of computer science, packet switching is a process that allows division of messages into packets and sending them to their destination following different routes, once they arrive at their destination, they are all recomposed into the original message. Paul in 1960 developed the concept of distributed network funded by United States Air force at the research and development corporation (RAND) which is aimed at developing a telecommunication network which can stand a nuclear war. (Paul, 1964, p.220-223).

The growth of ARPANET accelerated in the second half of the 1980s, through computer protocol (Tcp/lp) Transmission control protocol/Internet protocol which was adopted by

ARPANET (Vinton, 1969 UCLA) in 1983 and is still the core of internet. ‘The transition of Tcp/lp was perhaps the most important event that will take place in the invention of the internet.

After the installation of Tcp, the network could branch everyone’ (Hafner and Lyon, 1998,

p.249).In the same year, after the end of ARPANETs experimental phase, the network was split into two; A civilian network for the computer research community (ARPA internet) and military network (MILNET). In 1980, ARPANET was replaced by NSFANET created by National Science Foundation and in 1990, ARPANET was officially decommissioned and the commercial use of the internet was allowed in 1991, (Berners-Lee, 2000, p.223).

In 1995, the internet was just one networking system among many others such as Usenet, Fido net, Mintel, AT$T, but with advent of the web, the internet became by far the most important networking system. That led to what is now known as internet, a global network of interconnected computers that communicate freely, share and exchange information (Paul, 2010). The younger a person, the greater the likelihood he or she has access to the internet (Kim, 2004).

 Social Network

Early 1990s, chat rooms and bulletin boards were forms of Social Networking in a way, they help people to connect with others and share interest. A little cater; dating sites hooked those looking for partners and class mates. Communication allows people to connect with people they had known in high school and colleges and enable them to meet others.

In the early 20s, a site called Friendster was set up where people invited their friends and their friends also invited others. The site was popular for a while, but suffered from technical difficulties and fake profiles and began to lose members. In 1999, MySpace took over but became popular in 2003. Its roots are a bit muddy because it received financial and logistical support from another company called the E-Universe and most of the early users were employers of e-universe but Tom Anderson and Chris DE Wolfe are given credit for much of the innovation and success of the site, which built up to one hundred and fifteen million users worldwide. Members post BIOS, photos, blogs, video and other things that strike their fancy.

(Retrieved November 7^th2012)www.mudconnect.com.

Some Television Programmers’ had started producing programmers’ to air on MySpace in 2005; Rupert Murdoclis News Corporation (parent of fox broadcasting) bought MySpace for five hundred and eighty million dollars ($580). A competitor to MySpace is face book which started in about 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg while he was a student at Harvard and grew rapidly in 2007. At first, face book was solely for college and high school students but Mark opened it to everyone and like MySpace, it encourages all types of member postings. There are also smaller social networks like 2go, YouTube, and blackberry chat for people to have access to. (Retrieved

November 7^th2012) www.google.com

2go Logo

2go is a Social Networking Site, chat, and instant messaging (IM) application. It enables users to chat on their mobile phones free. You can meet users and 2go users as friends. Chat rooms on different topics are opened where you can join in the discussion and socialize with others and also, 2go have gateways that enable users chat with friends on Gtalk, Mxit, and face book.

(Retrieved November 9^th2012) www. Google.com.wikkipedia. (Research work).

One of the greatest points of 2go chat is its simplicity and light weight, making it available to lots of low-end phones. 2go runs on any java enabled phone, Nokia, LG, Samsung, and Sony Ericson. Blackberry users can use 2go on their Pc as part of an experimental service by the company and with it, they can chat anywhere and anytime of the day as they so please.

(Retrieved November 9^th 2012)www.google.com.

Blackberry Messenger

Blackberry is propriety internet-based instant messenger application included on blackberry devices that allows messaging between blackberry users. It was developed by the manufacturer of the blackberry research in motion (RIM); messages sent via blackberry messenger are sent over the internet and use the blackberry pin system, so communication is only possible between blackberry devices. (Retrieved November 10^th 2012) www.mit.edu /people/mkgray/net.

Pinging allows you to connect to friends using a ping ID, something akin to blackberry pin but easier to remember because you can pick it yourself. Once you’ve shared your pin or found friends via email or twitter, you can send text, messages, photos, videos and voice memos. Pretty much anything you might want to send to a friend can be sent using pin. Messages are in real time over the data network and pushed to the recipient. Once a message is sent, a little S or D and a tick with an R indicating the message has been sent and read. Ping chat also packs group messaging and social profiles, which allows you to display a photo, status and some information about yourself to confirm contacts and through these, one is connected to the whole world.

Brief History of University of Abuja

The University of Abuja is situated in the Federal Capital of Nigeria, Abuja. It was established on January 1^st 1988(under decree no 110 of 1992 as amended) as a dual-mode University with the mandate to run conventional and distance learning program.

The University runs regular degree, diploma and post-graduate program. Due to its location, it covers distance learning and a consultancy service sub-degree program and an institution to cater for professional needs of teachers and government educational system. It is temporary located in Gwagwalada Abuja, with its permanent site covering about 11,824 hectares under construction along the Kaduna-Lokoja road. Its activities started in the mini-campus in 1990.

(Retrieved December 2^nd 2012) www.webpod.com.

Statement of the Problem

Since the advent of social media sites in the 1990s, it is assumed in some quarters that the academic performance of students is facing a lot of neglect and challenges. There is a deviation, distraction and divided attention between social networking activities and their academic work.

It is observed that students devote more attention to social media than they do to their studies.

Therefore, the question this study is out to answer is: how do social media affect the academic performance of students of the University of Abuja?

Objectives of the Study

The study has the following objective. They are:

• To find out the various social networking sites the students had access to.
• To find out how often the students of University of Abuja go online.
• To determine how many hours the students spend in social networking activities daily.
• To ascertain how the use of social media has affected the academic performance of the students.

Research Questions

1. What social networking sites do the students of University of Abuja had access to?
2. How often do the students of University of Abuja go online?
3. How many hours do the students spend on social networking activities?
4. How has the use of social media affected the academic performance of the students of University of Abuja?

Scope of the Study

The essence of this research work is to primarily study the Influence of social media on the academic performance of students. The research intends to focus on students of the University of Abuja for easy analysis of data. This will reduce cost and avoid complexity that may arise as a result of having a very large population. But since in most cases the characteristics of students are generally similar, the research findings would be generalized to include all students of Nigeria Universities.

Significance/ Justification of the Study

The study will help researchers with more information on the Influence of social media on the student’s academic performance. It will be relevant in assisting students in understanding the diversity of social media. It will provide relevance material for students and other researchers undertaking similar research. 

Definition of Key Terms

The following are key terms used in the Research Work:

1. Social Media– They are forms of electronic communication which facilitate interactive base on certain interests. Social media include web and mobile technology. Kaplan and Helen (2010) defined Social Media as a group of internet based application that allows the creation and exchange of user generated content.
2. Social Networking Sites – A website where people put information about them and can send to others.
3. Social Networking – The use of internet to make information about yourself available to other people especially people you share an interest with to send messages to them.
4. Media – Are all those media technologies that are intended to reach a large audience by mass communication. “They are messages communicated through a mass medium to a number of people”(Bittner, 1980, p.10).
5. Academic – It is concerned with Studying from books as opposed by a practical work.
6. Students – Someone who is Studying at a University or School. Someone who is very interested in a particular subject.
7. Computer – A computer is a machine that receives or stores or process data quickly according to a stored program.
   

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   Source: Imsuinfo

   Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

This study examined the challenges and prospects of digitalization in select broadcast stations in Owerri metropolis. The stations studied were; NTA 12 Owerri, Orient TV and Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) Owerri. Some of the objectives were to establish the prospect of implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast station and to find out the availability of ICT tools that facilitate the implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations. The study adopted the technological determinism, diffusion of innovation, modernization and uses & gratification theories. Survey design was adopted and data gathered by the use of questionnaire administered to the staff of the select broadcast stations under study. The sample was drawn from a population of 244 staff i.e. copies of the instrument was administered to all the staff in the three select broadcast stations using purposive sampling technique. Some of the findings reveals that there is a widespread familiarity of the concept and workings of digitalization among the staff of the select broadcast stations and a strong agreement among staff regarding the potential benefits of digitalization in the stations. The researcher thus recommends among other things that broadcast stations should begin to organize reasonable measures to equip the broadcasters with the necessary knowledge and skills for the transition to digital broadcasting.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background to the Study

The term digitalization seem to be the driving force behind many modern developments in the broadcast industry in the world and thus it has assumed a very significant place in professional and academics discourse all over the world. Digitalization is the current trend in broadcasting, both in Nigeria and the world over. It is a technological innovation that will change the scope of radio and television broadcasting in this country and beyond. By definition, digitization is the process of conversion of analog information in any form: text, photographs, voice, etc. to digital form with suitable electronic devices, such as a scanner or specialized computer chips, so that the information can be processed, stored and transmitted through digital circuits, equipment, and networks (Idachaba, 2018).

Operationally, digitalization of broadcasting is the process of launching the DTT platform and switching off analogue broadcast platforms. Maynard (2010) describes digitalization as “a mega media”, whereby the much about the ways we define, gather and produce news will have to change. Specifically, the changes will be as follows: digital radio involves the pure digital transmission medium that improves the sound quality of radio broadcasts, virtually eliminating static, hiss, pops and fades and offers data display capabilities on receivers and opens up opportunity for multicasting: broadcasting multiple high-quality channels on each frequency (Robinson, 2004 & Okpanachi, 2008); whereas digitization of video signals reduces their sizes; therefore, more information can be carried over phone wires and stored (Baran, 2010).

The benefits of digitalization are numerous and have been expressed in many literatures. The benefits of digitalization could be in the direction of programme content, media convergence, quality signals and multiple channels. These benefits could also include an increase in efficiency in the use of spectrum and the launch of new services for viewers, which in turn, helps to secure the future of the terrestrial television as a viable economic platform. Digitised information is easier to store, access and transmit and digitization is used by a number of Consumer electronic devices. As countries increasingly adopt digital TV technology, analogue TV will become obsolete, making its maintenance difficult and costly (Ichadaba, 2018 & Ihechu and Uche, 2012).

The matter of digitalization of the broadcast media came into limelight on June 16, 2006 when a resolution on digitization for broadcasters was reached for countries of Europe, Africa, Middle East as well as the Islamic Republic of Iran. This resolution was reached in Geneva, Switzerland at an International conference organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). A deadline of 2015 was agreed upon for the effective take-off of digitization of the broadcast media. As part of the resolution, the ITU digitization deadline was limited to digitization of television broadcasting alone, while a deadline for radio was not spelt out or set. Furthermore, the ITU agreement allows for an additional five years to 2020 for many African countries of which Nigeria is inclusive. At the end of this resolution, representatives of 120 countries including Nigeria sat, agreed, adopted and signed the digitization treaty therefore making it binding on these countries.

Within a 10-year window, each country was allowed to choose its own switch off date. Several countries chose one single date for all broadcast operations to switch over to digital broadcasting while others such as the United Kingdom and India chose different dates for different cities and regions within their territories. Buoyed by optimism, stakeholders in the Nigerian broadcast industry adopted June 17, 2012 as the nation’s switchover date. This date was approved by the Late President Umaru Yar’adua. By this approval, June 17th, 2012 became the deadline for the official switch over to digital broadcasting. This date is three years earlier than the ITU’s deadline (Ocholi, 2009). The Netherlands became the first country to transit to digital broadcasting, barely a year after the policy was announced. Other countries followed suit, they include Andorra, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland, Denmark, Germany and Norway etc.

Unfortunately, for Nigeria, the 2012 date could not be realized. Due to this failure which was peculiar to Nigeria only, a new deadline was again set to switch over to digital from analogue broadcasting. The new deadline was set for 17th June, 2015. The Federal Government took some steps to ensure that the country met this deadline. DigiTeam is made up of a group of professionals who have not only contributed immensely to the industry but have years of experience to handle the mandate. This group of professionals was to work in collaboration with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). Other stakeholders were, Broadcast Signal Distributors, Set-Top-Box manufacturers, channel owners, partners such as CCNL and In-view Technologies and Call Centre Operators (Ichadaba, 2018).

Again unfortunately, despite the assurance given by the NBC, DG, Nigeria failed the second time to meet the ITU deadline. According to the Director General of NBC, Nigeria has achieved 20% digitization so far. 20% by all standards is a poor grade and this invariably means that Nigeria has not done well as far as this issue of digitization is concerned. After Nigeria’s failure to meet the second deadline, member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) chose yet another date, June, 2017 as the new deadline for the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting in the sub-region.

Barely one year to the 2017 deadline, Nigeria transited from analogue to digital television viewing on April 30, 2016 in the city of Jos, the Plateau State Capital when it launched the pilot phase of the Federal Government’s digital transmission project that kick started the digitalization process in Nigeria. While the digital switch-over (DSO) in Nigeria became a reality in 2016, it was not total and comprehensive. The National Broadcasting Commission, NBC, had only listed six states, one from each geo-political zone of the country, for DSO. The states are Kaduna in North-West, Kwara in North-Central, Gombe in North-East, Enugu in South-East, Osun in South-West and Delta in South-South. With that move, there appeared to be a fresh breath of hope for the June 20, 2017 deadline for Nigeria to complete the digital switchover and achieve analogue switch off. But in 2018, in the absence of complete digital switchover and analogue switch off, academic interests have been elicited to understand the prospects and challenges of digitalization by Nigerian broadcast stations.

In view of the foregoing, it is important to gauge the prospects and challenges of digitalization by Nigerian broadcast stations and be able to understand factors affecting complete digital switchover and achieve analogue switch off, and measure extent of their readiness in doing so in the future.  To do so, this study will assess the challenges and prospects of digitalization in select broadcast stations in Owerri metropolis, Nigeria.

Statement of the Problem

Nigeria has joined the global digitalization train. But the speed of decision and implementation has been less than inspiring. With a country specific switchover deadline fixed and failed a number of times and ultimately fixed at 2017, the eventual transition was achieved on April 30, 2016 in the city of Jos, the Plateau State Capital when it launched the pilot phase of the Federal Government’s digital transmission project that kick started the digitalization process in Nigeria. While the digital switch-over (DSO) in Nigeria became a reality in 2016, it was not total and comprehensive. After a number of failed deadlines and slow pace achieved in the total digital switchover and analogue switch off despite the country’s reputation as one of the most vibrant and varied media landscapes in Africa, one begins to wonder what challenges broadcast stations face in the digitalization efforts and what efforts are they making to position themselves to be ready for full implementation of digitalisation? While a lot of attention has been paid on the regulatory efforts by governments and lack of corresponding pace in the complete switchover, have the stations operators themselves put in place a broad-based technology in the form of ICT tools that facilitate the full implementation of digitalisation? What are the perspectives of handlers of broadcast stations in Owerri metropolis regarding their readiness and challenges facing implementation of digitalization in their stations?

Objectives of the Study

The objectives of this study are to:

1. Establish the prospect of implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations.
2. Examine the potential benefits of implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations.

• Know the range of challenges facing the full implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations.

1. Find out the availability of ICT tools that facilitate the implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations.

Research Questions

This research seeks to find answers to the following questions.

1. What is the prospect of implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations?
2. What are the potential benefits of implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations?

• What are the various challenges facing the full implementation of digitalization in the select broadcast stations?

1. To what extent do the select broadcast stations own the ICT tools that facilitate the implementation of digitalization?

 Significance of the Study

This study would be beneficial in the following ways: The findings would help to reposition the thought pattern and help media professionals to get acquainted with the new technologies to help produce quality programmes and facilitate the implementation of digitalisation. It takes the onus away from the government onto the role the owners of the various broadcast media (in the case of privately-owned stations) in positioning their stations for digitalization.

The finding of this study would help us to be able to understand factors affecting complete digital switchover and achieve analogue switch off, and measure extent of the readiness of individual broadcast stations in doing so in the future.  The findings of this research would add to the existing literatures and act as a handy material for students who might have interest in researching further on the topic.

Delimitation of the Study

This study was conducted to examine the likelihood of future implementation of digitalization by select broadcast stations in Owerri metropolis based on how far they are positioning themselves for digitalization using requisite technologies. The stations of interest include: NTA 12 Owerri, Orient TV and Imo State Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) Owerri. The study also looked at the challenges that those stations face in their effort to implement digitalization. The choice of Owerri is obvious as it has been identified as one of the cities with the largest concentration of media in Nigeria, which explain its choice. The largest being Lagos (and also being the city with the largest media concentration in Africa); other cities are Ibadan, Abuja and Enugu. This paper specifically deals with the digitalization of television broadcasting in the metropolis. Other broadcast media i.e. radio, film, sound recording are not covered by the paper for easy analysis and for the fact that there is more urgency in the digitalization of TV around the world because of the shorter deadline. In finding out the availability of and proficiency with ICT tools that facilitate digitalization, the work restricts itself to only new media (Internet), satellite technology, cable system, computer, digital cameras, fibre optic, Teledex and telephone employed in broadcasting.

 Definitions of Terms

For a proper understanding of this work, key terms used are defined based on their operational relevance to this study.

1. Applicable ICT tools: ICT tools that are used in broadcast and which facilitate the implementation of digitalization.
2. Broadcast: This is the business of sending out radio and television signals over a distance, to a large heterogeneous audience by means of airwaves.

• Broadcast Media: This is that electronic media or channel, specifically the television as used in this study, that uses the airwaves which enables signals and information to be transmitted to a large and diverse audience. The stations of interest include: NTA Port-Harcourt, Rivers State Television (RSTV) Port–Harcourt and AIT Port-Harcourt.

1. Challenges: Policy, financial, manpower, legal, social and political constraints that may hinder future implementation of digitalization.
2. Digital: Digital denotes the process whereby broadcast stations operate by processing or transforming information that is supplied and stored in the form of a series of binary digits.
3. Digitalization: refers to the switching over by broadcast station in Port-Harcourt to digital and switching off from analogue.

• ICT: They are technologies used in broadcast stations to share, distribute and gather information, and are mostly supported by computers and computer networks.
• Potentials: Likelihood for future implementation of digitalization.

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Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF               

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Source: Seminar

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.       

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the perception and utilization of mass media messages and family planning services among women of child bearing age in Imo State. In carrying out this research, the study had four objectives from which four research questions were posed. Descriptive survey research design was adopted. The instrument for the study is rating scale. The population of this study comprised all 2,778,462 (NDHS, 2018) child bearing women of ages 18-45 residing in Imo State. The study employed the Taro Yamane formula to obtain a broad response of four hundred (400) respondents from population understudied. In order to get women of reproductive age, the study employed multistage sampling on government hospitals within the 27 local governments in Imo State. The instrument employed in the study was the questionnaire which consists of scale with VHE- Very High Extent, HE-High Extent, LE-Low Extent and VLE-Very Low Extent. Arithmetic Mean and simple percentages were used in answering and analyzing the research questions. The findings indicated that Participants had high level of knowledge of at least one type of contraceptive method used for family planning; The “influence of family planning media messages were adequate to a very high level in terms of: credibility, relevance, reliability, accuracy authoritativeness and timeliness. It was also revealed that availability of family planning information (β = .138, P(.000) <.05) had positive contribution on attitude of childbearing women towards family planning. Based on the above findings, the researcher recommends media, policy makers and healthcare providers to create awareness and campaign programs on the importance and benefits of utilizing family planning methods in every household in the state.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1     Background of the Study

The highest fertility rate in the world is found in sub-Saharan Africa, and a decline in birth rates has decelerated even more over the past decade with severe implications for the realization of health and development goals in Africa (Cleland and Ndugba, 2011). Nigeria has projected to decrease the total fertility rate (TFR) from 4.6 in 2012 to 1.8 in 2050.³ Notwithstanding, the population is projected to reach 133.5 million in 2032 and 171.8 million in 2050. Therefore, to benefit from a demographic dividend, the country must first achieve a demographic transition through accelerating access to reproductive health and family planning services (Population Reference Bureau, 2013).

Even though Nigeria achieved most of the health-related millennium development goals (MDGs) including a 67% reduction in under-five mortality, and a 71% decline in maternal mortality ratio, achieving the health-related sustainable development Goal (SDGs) requires the country to implement strategies, which specifically target more marginal populations and geographic areas (Assefa et al., 2017). In response to this, the Nigeria Ministry of Health (MOH) has made the momentous step up in improving access to and quality of family planning (FP) throughout the country by enhancing mass media communication through the development of a cost implementation plan (CIP) for family planning as indispensable for aligning with global priorities as expressed in the SDG 5 which aims to achieve universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, including family planning (Docklova, Lau & Marshall, 2016).

Undeniably, family planning helps to reduce poverty, increase gender equity, prevent the spread of HIV, and lower infant deaths (Sing, Jacqueline & Ashford, 2016). Multicountry studies have shown that accessing family planning can reduce maternal deaths by as much as 40%, infant mortality by 10%, and childhood mortality by 21%. Despite the advantages of accessing family planning, the contraceptives utilization rate for modern contraceptive use by currently married Nigerian women is 35%. In the same vein, the unmet need for family planning for currently married women is 25% and 11% in rural and urban areas, respectively (Cleland et al., 2012).

Evidence showed that the provision of targeted, easily accessible, and accurate information about family planning through multiple channels increased the use of modern contraceptives, and impudence social norms on its utilization (Ahmed, Lui and Tsui, 2016). Studies have also shown that information through health care providers or the media can influence people positively in adopting family planning methods and encourage discussion about contraception between partners. A study conducted in Post-Soviet Central Asia illustrated that viewing family planning messages on television (TV) improves the chances of using modern contraception for a woman who saw the messages by about 8−11% (Isogunyo and Adindu, 2013). Another study conducted in Kenya showed that the proportion of women using a contraceptive method rises to 25% among those who have heard radio messages, to 40% among those exposed to both radio and print messages and 50% among those exposed to radio, print, and television messages compared to 15% among women who say they have neither seen nor heard media messages (Bongaarts, Cleland and Townsend, 2012).

Scholars have also argued that the relationship between information and family planning utilization not always a linear relationship. This underscores the call for analyzing the effect of access to family planning information on the utilization of modern contraceptives by different populations through mass media and subgroups to guide audience segmentation for tailored family planning behavior change interventions.

1.2     Statement of the Problem

Observed evidence, which has been documented in copious studies, is chiefly promising regarding the effects of mass media campaigns in promoting family planning and individual contraceptive choices (Kincaid, 2000). There are at least dual reasons why exposure to mass media can help to promote the use of contraceptives. First, effective communication plays an important role in facilitating social interaction and development in general. In the context of developing countries, in particular, mass media plays an instrumental role in enhancing health communication by bridging the language gap in policy information dissemination to promote different health behaviours, including contraceptive behaviors (David & Bankole, 2004). As health policies are often written with technical terms at the governmental level, mass media need to decode policy content to non technical and understandable languages, which can effectively inform public perceptions about health issues.

Unfortunately, research assessing the impact of mass media family planning messages on the use of modern family planning methods in Nigeria has lagged. Therefore, the current study endeavors to bridge this dearth by examining the relationship between family planning messages through mass media and the utilization of modern contraceptive methods among child bearing women in Imo State.

1.3     Objective of the Study

The main objective of this study is to examine the perception and utilization of media messages and family planning services among women in child bearing age in Imo State, Nigeria.

Specifically, the study set to;

1. To examine their level of awareness of family planning methods through media messages
2. To determine the attitude towards methods of family planning commonly used by child bearing women in Imo State
3. To establish the influence of mass media on family planning methods among child bearing women in Imo State.
4. To determine the relationship between exposures to mass media family planning messages and modern contraceptive use

 1.4     Research Questions

1. What is the extent of the perception of family planning and methods of contraception among child bearing women in Imo State
2. To what extent has the attitude towards artificial methods of family planning influenced child bearing women in Imo State.
3. What is the influence of mass media on Family Planning Methods use among child bearing women in Imo State.
4. What is the relationship between exposures to mass media family planning messages and modern contraceptive use

1.5     Research Hypothesis

H0: “There is no significant influence of mass media on Family Planning Methods use among child bearing women in Imo State”.

H1: “There is significant influence of mass media on Family Planning Methods use among child bearing women in Imo State”.

1.6     Significance of Study

This research will benefit people, especially families in Imo State Nigeria. This study will play an important role in educating the families and life partners on family planning awareness campaign. The study will enable the couple see the danger in the excessive child bearing in the society.

This study will help access the influence of child bearing awareness campaign on women in Imo State Nigeria and also serve as a source of guide to researchers who wish to research on this topic.

The findings from this study may be useful to the Ministry of Health, Non-Governmental Organizations, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in improving the overall family planning knowledge of mothers which consequently impacts on the society and survival.

1.7     Scope of Study

The study is focused on the perception and utilization of media messages and family planning services among women in child bearing age. it will be delimited to health centers, hospitals and homes of women who are within the child bearing age.

1.8     Operational Definition of Terms

Family planning services are “the ability of individuals and couples to anticipate and attain their desired number of children and the spacing and timing of their births.

Withdrawal Method: method of contraception (coitus interruptus) is the practice of withdrawing the penis from the vagina and away from a woman’s external genitals before ejaculation to prevent pregnancy.

Condom: are a “barrier” method of contraception. They are made of very thin latex (rubber), and are designed to prevent pregnancy by stopping sperm from meeting an egg.

Mass Media: Mass media refers to a diverse array of media technologies that reach a large audience via mass communication. Broadcast media transmit information electronically via media such as films, radio, recorded music, or television.

Contraception: Also known as birth control, anticonception, and fertility control, is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy.

Child Bearing Women –  relating to the process of a woman becoming pregnant and giving birth to a baby usually between the age brackets of 18 – 45 or 50

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Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the perception of cybercrime among Nigerian youths using Caritas University as a study. In this research study, we found out people’s reaction to messages depends mainly on how it is perceived. To achieve the aim o the study, literature was reviewed. Survey research method was used in which questionnaire, the major instrument, was distributed to various respondents in the execution of the study. Samples were selected using the systematic random sampling techniques. Chi-square and simple percentages was used in analyzing data. Internet is used as a channel for the perpetration of criminal spamming activities was the finding drawn. Finally, Cyber laws should be made to govern the country’s cyber space and give the nation’s adequate cyber security was the recommendation gotten based on the finding drawn.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1      BACKGROUND OF STUDY

Crime remains pervasive and forever strives to hide itself in the face of development. As measures and techniques for detecting crimes and criminals advance, criminals also look for means of hiding from these measures.

Obano (2007:17) asserts that the internet currently serve as a hiding place for fraudsters who have simply migrated from the streets to an electronic platform.

Okonigini (2002:25) defines computer crime as criminal activities, involving information technology infrastructure, including illegal access of computer data from or within a computer.

Similarly, Asokhia (2003:49) asserts that cyber crime, popularly called “YAHOO” is an off-shoot of advance fee fraud which became popular in the early 90s. Today, it has produced “YAHOO” as its first offspring with mostly young people (most especially the unemployed) as its practitioners.

Different nations have adopted different strategies to contend with crimes depending on their nature and extent. Certainly, a nation with high incidence of crime cannot grow or develop. For Nigeria, a nation in the process of saving her face regarding cyber crimes, efforts are now being directed at the sources and channels through which cyber crimes are being perpetuated the most. [Chiemeke (2008:32)].

Martins (2008:47) assert that “YAHOOISM” is an act of cyber crime that defrauds unsuspecting victims in foreign countries of their hard-earned money. In some instance, the unsuspecting victim is used to defraud banks, postal agencies, shops, etc. the yahoos (perpetrator) sends fake cheque or postal money orders to victims in any of the following countries: Canada, United States of America and other European countries or Asia as the case may be.

He further notes that when the cheques or money order are cashed, the victim is told to send the money through Western Union Money transfer in Nigeria, while in other cases, the victim is told to send the money to another country where the yahooist has built networks over time.

The mode of money collection is usually dependent on the modus operandi the yahooist uses. In similar vein, Alemika (2007:15) notes that in Nigeria today, cyber crime has found its root in the society. Like a cankerworm it has eaten deeply in the society and finally been accepted by the same society.

It is difficult to deny youth support of the menace with yahooze shirts, yahooze dance steps, yahooze songs from the likes of Olu Maintain. Even some young people identify themselves as yahoo boys and girls.

Similarly, Martins (2008:43) notes that the paramount classification of yahooism as a branch of cyber crime and transitional crime is not only expedient in understanding its mystery, but propounding a lasting solution when considering curbing the menace. Yahooism is the fastest growing transnational crime in recent times, especially in Nigeria.

1.2 STATEMENT OF RESEARCH PROBLEM

Nigeria according to Wikipedia is said to be 7^th largest oil producing country in the world, but nevertheless, the majority of Nigerians are still living in poverty.

Nigeria is also rated amongst one of the most corrupt countries of the world.

Internet usage in Nigeria has grown rapidly resulting in the explosion of Internet Service Providers (ISP_S) and Internet Access Point creating an increase in the positive impacts on the socio-economic and educational developments in the country.

Unfortunately, the country’s image has also suffered as a result of the unscripted activities of some Nigerians using the internet as a channel for the perpetration of criminal spamming activities.

The major implication of the unconscious acceptance of this menace in the Nigerian society in the nearest future has created a high level of disinterest in education and touting among young people.

In Nigeria today, young people mostly youths are the ones who engage in this form of anti-social behaviour for the purpose of living a life of splendour.

In recent times Nigeria has been labelled as a corrupt nation. There is a need for the Nigerian government to do something fast and urgent to curb this menace of cyber crime.

1.3 PURPOSE OF STUDY

1. To determine the perception of Nigerian youths towards cybercrime.
2. To determine the reason why cybercrime is mostly rampant among Nigerian youths.
3. To suggest measures that can be taken by the federal government to curb cybercrime in Nigeria.

1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1. To find out how Nigerian youths perceive cybercrime.
2. To assess the ways federal government can curb the continued spread of cybercrime among Nigerian youths and the general public.
3. To ascertain the factors that tends to cause young people’s involvement in cybercrime in Nigeria.
4. To find out if the internet is used as a channel for the perpetration of criminal spamming activities.

1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. In what way do Nigerian youths perceive cybercrime?
2. What are the ways Federal Government can curb the continued spread of cybercrime among Nigerian youth and the general public?
3. Is the internet used as a channel for the perpetration of criminal spamming activities?
4. What are the factors that tend to cause people’s involvement in Cybercrime in Nigeria?

1.6 RESEARCH HYPOTHESES

H_0: internet is not used as a channel for the perpetration of criminal spamming activities.

H_1: internet is used as a channel for the perpetration of criminal spamming activities.

H_0: the Federal Government cannot curb the continued spread of cybercrime among Nigerian youths and the general public.

H₂: the Federal Government can curb the continued spread of cybercrime among Nigerian youths and the general public.

1.7 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study, which is primarily aimed at explaining how cybercrime has impacted on the perception of youths in the society, will provide an insight into the problems associated with cybercrime.

This report would be of great benefit for youths, to expose them to the factors that tend to cause young people’s involvement in cybercrime in Nigeria.

It would be useful to the government and related stakeholders to enable them adequately understand factors responsible for and how to curb the continue spread of cybercrime among Nigerian youths [and the general public].

The findings will be useful for researchers to further generate knowledge in the field.

1.8 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

This study focused on the perception of cybercrime among Nigerian youths, using students in Caritas University as the study group.

A major limitation of the group is the samples were only from Caritas University where it was chosen as the area in carrying out this research.

This finding is based on the results gathered from Caritas University students on the perception of cybercrime among Nigerian youths.

1.9 ASSUMPTIONS OF THE STUDY

For the purpose of this study, the following assumptions were made:

1. It is assumed that Nigeria youths are aware of cybercrime.
2. That poverty is the major reason why youths engage in cybercrime in Nigeria.
3. That peer pressure contributes to the increase of cybercrime in Nigeria.
4. That Nigerian youth are educated on the use of the cyber all the time.

1.10   DEFINITION OF TERMS

OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

Perception: Caritas student’s attitude towards cybercrime among Nigerian youths.

Cyber: The use of computers, information systems or the internet by the Nigerian youths.

Crime: The display of illegal act characterized by decent, contentment or violation of trust of the youths.

Youth: It is when a young person is young especially the time before a child becomes an adult.

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Pages:  49

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF         

Chapters: 1-5                                 

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

The study is on “The effects of online newspapers on the printed versions”. The study has four objectives and four research questions.  The study follows a descriptive research design which is concerned with the description of data and characteristics about a population. The population was 20 registered students from different faculties of the University of Limpopo Turfloop campus in Mankweng community and the sample size was 7-10 people; these are the students who are unfamiliar with each other from different faculties. These participants are selected because they have certain characteristics in common that relate to the topic of the focus group. The findings show that Newspaper publishers need to provide more training to the ordinary citizens especially people from the age group of 35 and above on how to access their online versions of the print on the internet via mobile gadgets and personal computers. For improvement in consumption of both print and online newspaper, the internet does not destroy print newspapers but bring in new ways of communication. Publishers must make use of this tool to enhance their print editions to online editions. Publishers of content, the responses indicate benefits to operating in both a print and an online venue, with the print edition and web or online offerings complementing not merely duplicating each other. The study therefore recommended among others that both print and online newspapers are successful in the future and work together to make each other stronger, improvements have to be made to both content and presentation the two main driving forces behind increasing readership. Newspaper publishers should try to enhance the advantages and eliminate as many of the disadvantages as possible for each medium.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

In a midst of new media technologies the printed version of newspapers are negatively affected by the online news consumption.The survival of print newspapers on their online counterparts will be remembered as a watershed year in South Africa when, after more than 200 years, printed newspapers were surpassed by digital computers, tablets and cellphones as the primary source of news for most of the country’s inhabitants McQuail (2003:197). Indicated by the Times Group over the next three years, classic print advertisement spend will lose R2 billion and digital spend will be more than triple as advertisement spend. This resulted in two of South Africa’s largest newspaper publishing groups, Times Media Group and Independent Newspapers, change hands earlier this year.

Online newspapers are carving a niche of their own, especially among the news hounds, the computer savvy, and the young, who see the Internet as a viable medium for information and needium perfectly suited for people who have gone beyond television. With its tendency to blur and blend media, the online newspaper is not as straightforward as its print counterpart, even if it contains all of the news and information that is in the newspaper. The online newspaper is postmodern, online newspapers do not allow readers to thumb through and physically relate to the organisation of the online publication; readers must organise and prioritise their news mentally. Those unfamiliar with the practice and design of the online newspaper might not realise that the spotted owl story was on the front page of the online newspaper but not the front page of the print paper. Inversely, many stories deemed important enough to run on the front page of the print edition are not deemed timely or important enough to run on the front of the paper’s web site (Shayla, 1998).                                                                                                                                                       1.2   STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Over the past century print newspapers have played a dominant role in public communication and are now struggling to adapt to the information age that has shrunk the business model foundation that has proven so successful in the past which led to the rise of online newspapers. Most Consumers no longer purchase the printed version but prefers the online version of newspaper hence it is cheaper and accessible. Faced with such an adversary, small and large newspapers alike may have no choice but not to abandon their traditional methods but to go for an innovative approach which is going online.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The objectives of this study are:

• To compare/benchmark the consumption of both online and print newspapers.
• To highlight the advantages and disadvantages of online newspapers on print versions.
• To investigate the consumption patterns by the readers.
• To analyse similarities in terms of features, production and writing style use in both the online and print version of newspapers.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

• What is the readership rate of both online and print newspapers?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of online newspapers on print versions?
• What are the consumption patterns by the readers?
• What are the similarities in terms of features, production and writing style use in both the online and print version of newspapers?

1.5: HYPOTHESES

The study will focus on the effects of online newspapers on the printed versions. Thisis needed because of the technological context with the internet there are more online newspapers which affect the print newspapers. Print Newspapers ensure that the readers get the best experience from the content. While the purpose of providing a decent experience to the end-user is predominantly the same for the online versions, online newspapers enhance their print counterparts.Where eye/mouse-tracking research has long been in effect to optimise the online experience, the need to implement prominent advertising placeholders and other cross-linking often sacrifices a clean and attractive layout.

1.7 Scope of the study

The University of Limpopo Turfloop Campus in the Capricorn District situated outside Polokwane City in Mankweng Community Limpopo Province. The Turfloop Campus holds to up approximately 18000 students residing both on-campus and off-campus. The Sowetan newspaper provides students with its publications in a form of a hardcopy, the campus also have various computer labs with internet access with most of the student’s residence equipped with wireless internet for all students and local Mankweng Residents for use.

1.4 Significance of the study

The study of effects of online newspapers on the printed version can be a learning paradigm in the South African media and various newspaper publishers to ensure and enhance productivity in both media. The primitive purpose of this study is to establish the effects of online newspapers on print version and to develop positive and negative effects they may have on newspaper publishers, the results of this study will benefit different newspaper organisations, businesses in terms of where to advertise, and the community who are the consumers of this media. This study is significant because it will provide the crucial facts about the existing effects of online newspapers on the printed version, including the challenges that print newspapers face. This study will serve as the basis for future plans of action by the newspaper organisations be it community newspapers or commercial print newspapers .This study will not only benefit newspaper publishers but also the entire community they serve.

Furthermore, this study will serve as a theoretical model for future studies of the same nature if ever the existing problem has penetrated in this case will exist in the future. Future researchers will benefit from this study, and it will provide them the facts needed to compare their study during their respective time and usability.

1.5 Theoretical Framework

• The Libertarian theory

According to libertarian theory, people are rational beings Capable of distinguishing between truth and falsehood, and between good and evil. In terms of interactivity users can write or leave in their comments about what they think of a news story on an online newspaper via the internet. The emphasis is on personal freedom and democracy that emerged in the seventeenth century and flourished in the nineteenth century before the development of internet, the media and internet are seen as a source of information and a platform for the expression of divergent opinions (Roelofse, 1996).With print media, traditional media such as newspapers layout current news for the society, but with online versions the audience can give feedback and views on any article of an online newspaper of the same publication (McQuail,1987).

• The Social Responsibility theory

According to this theory it attempts to reconcile the ideas of freedom and independence with responsibility towards society. It is based on the premises that the media are under an obligation to create a forum for different viewpoints(new media) (Roelotse 1996:53-54).The theory also states that the media (newspapers) should fulfil their responsibilities mainly by setting professional standards with regard to the supply of information(news) and the truth, accuracy, objectivity and balance of their reporting. It should self-regulate within the framework of the law and established institutions. The media should avoid publishing information that can lead to crime, violence or social disruption, as well as information that can offend ethnic minorities.

• The postmodern: new society, new media environment

Amongst postmodern scholars (Ang 1998; Jacka 2003) Postmodern are characterised by a new kind of public, which in turn is characterised by hybridisation, fragmentation and the rise of minorities and minority rights. It is a society where traditional media and new media are blurred. In this new society, new channels of public communication exist such as the internet, brought about by new technologies, convergence, liberalisation, deregulation and globalisation. In terms of content, new genres such as infotainment and reality television are being produced all of them blurring the traditional distinction between information and entertainment. It is argued that the new media (internet) environment, journalism has become market-driven and guided by what is interesting rather than what is important, by an audience orientation.

1.6 Conclusion

Newspapers are static, isolated points of reporting in the media world and have several unique benefits compared to their online counterparts. The following sections attempt to highlight these benefits, and show how a digital edition of a print newspaper can fill the gap between the printed paper and the news site. Content on online sites can be updated, changed and adapted as many times as necessary, making it more transient, and coincidentally less transparent. The sole focus of the print version is on news, whereas the online edition can have split objectives, distracting from the purpose of informing (Flanagin& Metzger,2001).  The study is about investigating and making comparison between the two media in terms of content difference.

1.7 SUMMARY OF THE CHAPTERS

1.7.1 Chapter one entails the background of study with the purpose of the research study, introducing the proposed study by stating and describing the problem of investigation, and clarifying some concepts as they are applicable to the study.

1.7.2 Chapter two focus on literature review on the effects of online newspapers on the printed version. In this chapter it was discovered that the new media plays a major role in disseminating news and information. It captured previous work by other scholars who worked on the research topic.

1.7.3 Chapter three describes the methodology and design of the research project. It further described the population and sample that were employed to collect the empirical data. The focus group interviews along with questionnaires were used to collect data. The manner of selecting interviewees was purposive.

1.7.4 Chapter four is dedicated to data analysis using the constant comparative method and interpretation of results that subsequently led to the findings and recommendations

1.7.5 Chapter five focus on the findings and recommendations of the study.

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Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

The study is on “The effects of social media in educating the public on the corona virus pandemic”. The study has four objectives and four research questions. Survey research design was used for the study. The population was 1,401,873 and the sample size was 400. Taro Yamanne (1969) statistical formula was used to determine the sample. Questionnaire was used for collection of data while simple percentage and frequency counts table was used to analyse the research questions. The findings show that members of the public conclude that many of these false messages are authentic and reliable. Indeed, social media on the one hand is a good tool for dissemination of knowledge while on the other hand, it could be destructive, and divisive when it falls to the hands of mischief makers. Social media platforms are prompt and efficient in keeping up with dialogues surrounding the pandemic and this is not restricted to Nigeria alone. The study therefore recommended among others that online newspapers should adopt the operation model of the conventional newspaper. Stories should write to perfection, subjected to the rigorous scrutiny of the head of the reporter’s desk, checked again by the news editor and his team with a strong re-write desk ensuring that the story conforms to a house style; and then a final check by the editor of the paper. Running a newspaper requires a huge capital outlay which makes publishers are reporters susceptible to moneybags looking for where to plant stories that would further their interest, online newspaper practitioners should rather rely on international donor agencies which support independent media organizations which funds to enable them better hold the government accountable to the people. Online newspapers must not base their reports on rumors spread on the social media.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1     BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Over the years, social media has become an active technological tool in Nigeria; as well as a news and communication channel for the citizenry of Nigeria. Access to mobile telephony especially among the technologically savvy youths has made dissemination of information easy with a snap of the finger. In recent times, as the pandemic encroaches on and emasculates world activities, social media platforms have been utilized as an information outlet to citizens. Its significance has gained more recognition owing especially to the fact that the government implemented a lockdown policy to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Thus, it has become an active tool for engagement and communication for the dissemination of plausible information as well as incredulous (mis)information.

There is a growing body of literature on social media. A critical analysis shows change and continuity in communication and information technology. Let’s examine below some of the issues. Social Media is an offshoot of the Internet and according to DiMaggio et al. (2001, p. 307), the Internet refers to the electronic network or networks that link(s) people and information through computers and other digital devices; thereby allowing for person-to-person communication and information retrieval. The Internet is a major tool that emerged for the purpose of information dissemination; thus, the media acts as an information hegemon in terms of determining what information is made available to people as well as the impression people have on issues (Savrum & Leon, 2015). Largely, Social Media is the collection of websites and web-based systems that allow for mass interaction, conversation and sharing among members of a network (Murphy, 2013, p. 3). These diverse media outlets and communication networks played an important role in facilitating uprisings such as the Arab spring (AlSayyad & Guvenc, 2015, p. 2025). Its power lies in live pictures conveyed by video recording of events as it unfolds. The international livestreaming of events is capable of mobilizing a huge population of citizenry for positive or negative end. More so, it has played an important role in crippling dictatorial regimes. Unfortunately, these various outlets have been abused as unscrupulous people hide under its anonymity to defraud or relay false information. As the importance of social media is not lost on the general public for information engagement, its abuse in Nigeria especially during this emergency period is neither lost on any keen observer. Consequently, its advantages and disadvantages are highlighted in this paper.

The Coronavirus (Covid-19) is an infectious disease causes respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe respiratory difficulties. It originated from the Hunan seafood market at Wuhan, China where live bats, snakes, raccoon dogs, wild animals among others were sold in December 2019 (Shereen et al., 2020, pp. 91–98) and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on 11 March 2020 (WHO, 2020). Since its identification, the virus is said to have accounted for about 512,311 deaths globally out of a swooping statistic of 10,514,028 positive cases which sadly increases exponentially daily (WHO, 2020). The first victim of the virus in Nigeria was an Italian man who arrived in the country on the 25 February 2020. He was admitted to an Isolation Centre in Yaba Lagos after showing symptoms of the virus (NCDC 2020). Subsequently, the cases increased and, as at the time of this paper, almost 28,711 positive cases and 11,665 recuperated persons have been identified (NCDC, 2020).

Noticeably, Nigeria is trying to curb the rapid spread of Covid-19 through immediate lockdown of the major epicenters of Lagos, Ogun, and Abuja: commercial and administrative hubs of the country; where there have been spike of coronavirus cases. Some state governors have also taken proactive actions by closing their “borders” in a bid to curtail the spread of the virus. Other measures include prohibition of mass gathering of people at churches, sports arenas and burials while schools were closed nationwide. The achievement of these feats can be attributed not just to proper healthcare facilities but also to the impacts of social media in the country. Its platforms: WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube have become varying means of communication and engagement by not just the government but by the general populace. Contrarily, social media is also utilized as a means of propaganda in disclosing news and information, which at most are based on assumptions and speculations. On this note, this paper intends to interrogate the use of social media as a tool for the good, the bad and the ugly.

1.2     STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

In times like the corona virus pandemic, information becomes very important especially, as everybody is scared of contracting the virus and the traditional media has been forced to shut down or apply caution i  As the corona virus – or to be precise Covid-19 – spreads around the n discharging their duties; it became paramount to utilize another medium for information dissemination.

As the pandemic spreads and disrupt human activities across the world, getting accurate information about the disease becomes ever more important. And in the social media age, that puts a heavy responsibility on the likes of Facebook and Twitter. These are the platforms that billions now rely on for news and they are already providing fertile territory for those wanting to spread misinformation. On Facebook, it is in groups opposing vaccines and those campaigning against 5G mobile phone networks that scare stories appear most likely to take hold.

A research on a number of the 5G groups, shows that plenty of comments suggesting there is a link between the virus and the new networks. The Stop 5G UK group has more than 27,000 members, one of whom has posted this: “I’ve heard it’s not a serious “Virus”, it’s about as bad as a flu or cold. So really this is a perfect plan to cover up EMF/5G related illnesses.” Others have shared links to websites and videos connecting the coronavirus to the rollout of 5G in the part of China where it originated.

Another popular theory is that the virus was engineered in a lab and deliberately released by, take your pick, the Chinese or American government. Over on the Facebook 5G and microwave radiation group, an article from Technocracy News claims: “It is becoming pretty clear that the Hunan corona virus is an engineered bio-weapon that was either purposely or accidentally released.”

Sequel to the above, it became imperative to study and ascertain how effectively the social media was able to communicate accurate information to the masses and its effect in educating them on the novel corona virus pandemic.

1.3     OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The main objective of this research work is to examine the effects of social media in educating the public on the corona virus pandemic, but its specific objectives include the following;

1. To find out which social media platform was used most frequently as a channel for the dissemination of news about the Corona virus pandemic.
2. To determine the perception of audience concerning the news on social media about Corona virus.
3. To determine the effects of social media education about Corona virus on residents.
4. To recommend measures to be adopted in curtailing the spread of fake news on social media.

1.4     RESEARCH QUESTIONS

From the objectives, the researcher was able to extract these questions. The research questions will serve as a base to the researcher in preparing her questionnaire for collection of data.

1. Which social media platform was mostly used as a channel for the dissemination of corona virus news?
2. How do Owerri residents perceive the frequent use of social media in disseminating news about Corona virus?
3. What effect does the use of social media in educating about Corona virus have on residents?
4. What possible measures could be adopted in curtailing the use of social media in spreading fake news?
   • SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The research will be beneficial to media practitioners They would get to know why they should rely on credible sources of information rather than embellishing what a user posted on the social media as story for their readers. This study would help readers know the difference between the social media and online newspapers so that the intemperance of the one would no longer mar the other.

Also, the research will add to existing literature for students and scholars who will be carrying out similar studies. It will finally be of importance to online media practitioner in Owerri, so as to enable them up their games and understand the danger in fake news and rumors.

1.6        SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study is centered on examining the effects of social media in educating the masses in Owerri about the corona virus pandemic. The research will be centered on residents in Owerri metropolis and they will serve as the researchers population.

1.7     OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS.

PERCEPTION: This refers to how the residence of Owerri sees and reacts to the news content about the corona virus on social media.

SOCIAL MEDIA: This is an online interaction platform for dissemination of messages, videos, podcast and images, which Owerri residents rely on most times for information AND education.

CORONA VIRUS: This is a disease that affects the lungs and caused difficulty in breathing which might lead to death. The Corona Virus started in China in 2019 and has spread to almost all part of the world. Its presence in Nigeria has caused fear among citizens, especially, those in Owerri.

COVID 19: This is an acronym for the pandemic, it means; Corona Virus 2019.

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Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

The study is on “The critical evaluation of the impact of digital switchover on the electronic media”. The study has three objectives and four research questions.  Descriptive research design was used for the study.  The population of this study comprises of Island and Oshodi Areas of Lagos State, students of Imo State University and Owerri Metropolitan Area of Imo State in Owerri-West who are deeply involved in the management of secondary schools. The findings of this study revealed that the digital switch-over can bring a good economic boost. The data got with regards to principles of broadcast policies making namely; public interest, diversity, localism and competition as the dependent variables while the digital migration in Nigeria is the independent variable. This is a new technology with a more efficient way of transmitting quality sound and pictures by turning them into computerized data. The benefits of digital television over analogue includes; quality content production, good reception, possibilities of huge spectrum for broadcasting, access to internet, quality signal, supporting different picture format, robust to noise, easy to scramble signals, etc. Based on the findings, the study therefore recommends that since poor weather conditions are likely to cause adverse effects on digital transmission, more weather friendly equipments should be used in order to overcome this problem. Further study should seek to answer the following questions; does the digital television (Broadcasting) serve better than the analogue which has been in use for years before the advent of modern technology? Is it faster than the former (analogue)?

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

The term digital broadcasting is a catch all term for the use of electrical signal that are a sequence for discrete number. Analog broadcasting uses electrical signals that vary in a continuous way. The shift from analog to digital is an inevitable one that has taken place in a virtually all electronic system over the past decades. Digital signals are much more flexible can be squeezed into smaller space and open up many opportunities than analog signals. The case of making the transition is a self-evident and beneficial as was changing transport from horse to motor-cars. The change could bring a great deal more channels for viewers, the option of higher quality image multimedia and more involving and inclusive television.

For consumers, the means of watching television is simple and has remained largely unchanged since the 1950. Push a button and news from around the world memorable stop joint images of far flung places and beamed directly to you yet behind the sense television is a complicated affair working as Head of

Engineers. I have found memories of rooms full of canister of films the whirring of video tape machine towering transmitter with complicated wiring and expensive audio console all working to air the program schedule that was planned weeks before transmission yet television is evolving as we move towards the digital era and most of the equipments that I used is now obsolete. The shift towards digital broadcast means that consumer can enjoy a wider variety of shows on multiple channels with a better quality of broadcast. It also reduces power and energy consumption and spectrum efficiency which bring a host of associated benefits for consumer and broadcasters. But this shift from analog to digital broadcasting also brings its own set of challenges. The digital switchover is the name given to the process of changing from analog to digital TV broadcasting. On the 16^th June, 2006, a treaty agreement was reached at the conclusion of I.T.U Regional Radio communication Conference (RRC) in Geneva heralding the development of all digital terrestrial broadcast service for sound and television. The digitization in Europe, Africa, Middle East, and the Islamic Republic of Iran by a target date of June, 2015 represent a major

milestone towards establishing a more equipped cable. Just and people centered information society connecting the unconnected in underserved and remote communities and closing digital divide. The new digital GE06 plan provides not only the possibilities for strutted development of digital terrestrial broadcasting but also sufficient flexibilities for adaptation to the changing telecommunication environment. Many people today will be familiar with analogue broadcasting having a restricted choice of programming to limited space for channel having to tune the t.v to your region to ensure you pick up broadcast having to play with the antennae to get smooth uninterrupted signal but as we move towards all these digital, this means of broadcast is becoming redundant.

With the advancement of digital technology, we are now able to broadcast more efficiently in comparison to analogue. Firstly, analogue television broadcast occupies a large amount of spectrum a finite natural resources and the electro-magnetic channel 6MHZ to 8MHZ band width. The same channel could carry a multiplex of up to 20 digital programmes of equivalent quality and as spectrum of limited resources.

This is a valuable saving the spectrum that now being freed up as a result of the switch-over is known as digital divided.

1.2                Background of the Study

Digital broadcasting is a new technology where audio, video and data are transmitted over airwaves like computer. The waves in digital broadcasting are encoded to ensure enhanced picture and sound quality. Following this, the international telecommunication union after its congress in Geneva, Switzerland in 2006  set June in 2015 as the deadline as the entire world as switch over date from the current mode of broadcasting to the ultra-modern digital terrestrial of broadcasting. However, before we go further on this discourse, let us take a brief history of television. The advent of television radically affected radio forcing it from it’s primary position in mass communication to a secondary role. On early milestone was the successful transmission of image in 1884 by German inventor, Paul Nipkozo. His mechanical system known as the Rotating or Mpkwo was further developed by Charles Francis Jekins who made a telecast of a short film to the U.S government officials in Washington D.C in 1925 and by Scottish scientist John

Logie Bard who broadcast a televised image in 1926 to an audience at the Royal Academy of Science in London. In 1428, Herbert was an engineer working at ATET offered what was perhaps a most spectacular demonstration of mechanical television to that point, transmitting colour image of a bouquet of roses and an American to two audience simultaneously in New York City and Washington D.C.

In 1987, Japanse demonstrated research and experiments. In 1987, analog MGH definition T.V system (called muse) and in 1990, General Instrument video cipher division announced DIGITAL HI-DEFINITION SYSTEM. This served as a forerunner to the internet world wide web of the 1990s which ushered in new global communication system for the 21^st century.

In November 2007, the National Broadcasting Commission briefed the 38^th National Council on Information and Communication in Jos on the imperatives of digitization and urgent need for the nation to take advantage of this inevitable global phenomenon.

In December 2007, His Excellency, President Umaru Musa Yar’adua approved that, the commission should set in motion and pilot Nigeria’s digitization programme towards the target date of June in 2012.

Digitization programme commenced in Abuja on June 3, 2008 following a meeting of stakeholders in the broadcast industry where forum underscored the need for Nigeria to embrace the new technology so that the country will not be turned into a dumping ground for obsolete analogue equipments. All broadcast stations in Nigeria whether television, radio, public or privately owned will be matched to move from analogue to digital broadcasting. This movement from analog to digital broadcasting is based on the overwhelming benefits of digital broadcasting over the analog. More so, this has posed a lot of challenges to the Nigerian Government and the broadcast station.

1.3          Statement of the Problem

The analog television transmitters that were once useful for beaming pictures to television sets are gradually being replaced with the High Definition Television and the Nigeria Broadcast

 

industry has been given the target date of June 2012 as switch-over date.

This work seeks to examine the transmission from analog broadcasting in Nigeria.

Objectives of the Study

The main objectives will be achieved through addressing topics related to digital divide from the perspective of accessibility, availability utilization awareness and sustainability for the project.

1. Increasing the accessibility of the service, increasing the availability of service by performing analysis and implementation of potential technical solution based on Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) network (apart from satellite signal distribution) are namely considered to offer the most efficient way to cover rural areas whereas the completion of Analogue to digital switch-over process. This technology platform is not so limited by the scarcity of the radio spectrum.
2. Increasing the availability of services by performing analysis and implementing push based internet services in order to offers internet user experience those groups who don’t have access because of limitations such as digital divide and focus will be based on already existing public service such a government and health alarming entertainment,
3. Media and others which will be accessed through commonly used T.V sets, set up boxes or USB receiver and navigated through simple t.v remote.
   • Research Questions

This question would be raised on;

1. What are the benefits of digital broadcasting over the analog?
2. What are the implications of digital technology over the analog?
3. What is the impact of digital broadcasting?
4. What challenges does the transition from analog technology to digital technology pose for broadcasting station in Nigeria?

Enabling the Utilization of New and Prosperous Business Concepts

By adapting the regulatory framework allowing all grant licenses for the network operators and content providers/aggregators in case of non-television service since this will allow them to use spectrum released by the Analogue to digital switchover process and free capacity on existing television multiplexes and fast of the implementation of additional service.

Increasing Awareness

By promoting the solution(s) and service on the basis of concrete actions such as pilot presentation and other supporting activities with a goal to familiarize with and mobilize the stakeholders towards the prospects of new solutions content and service.

Assuring sustainability by analyzing the outcome of executed awareness activities and preparing the guidelines studies tools and concrete business case modeling which shall be supported by expert capacity.

• Research Hypothesis

1. Ho: There is no digital broadcasting AIT.

H1: There is digital broadcasting in AIT.

2. H0: The impact of digital broadcasting is AIT is 1020.

H1: The impact of digital broadcasting in AIT is high.

1.6          Significance of the Study

The research of the study tends to make Nigerians know that, Nigeria Digital Switchover Programme has today become the most talk of the town. In Africa, it was designed by Nigerians and it’s being implemented by Nigerians.

This is not the case in quite a number of setting in Africa and the consequence is that, we are constantly receiving enquiries and visits from other African countries to understand the work we have done.

• Scope of the Study

The scope of this study centers on the critical evaluation of the impact of digital switchover on the electronic media.

• Assumptions of the Study

Economists in the department of trade and industry, the department of culture, media and sport and (up to December, 2003) the Radio communication agency has developed a model to evaluate the cost and benefits to the U.K of competing digital switchover the switching off of analogue terrestrial transmission and subsequent use of the UHF spectrum is compared with continuity with both analogue and digital transmissions.

• Limitations of the Study

The study was constrained by the time and some inability of some respondent to give answers to questions without some form of hesitation and delay.

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Chapters: 1-5                                 

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.

ABSTRACT

This study “Role of Public Relations in Corporate Gender Conflict Resolution (a study of First Bank Nigeria Plc, Orji, Branch), seeks to study the term gender conflict, in addition to the importance and effective practice of public relations. It covers the important roles which a public relations practitioner performs in corporate organizations such as the bank and also the need of a Public Relations practitioner in curbing conflict and conflict resolution in such organization.  Critical reviews of related literature were made. Relevant theories were used to gratify the study such as the social responsibility theory, which was used to describe public relations as a social responsibility of maintaining good and mutual relationship between bankers, customers and the environment in which it operates. The researcher made use of survey research method. The method of analysis is the stratified sampling method using frequency and percentage tables. Questionnaire was used in the course of retrieving vital information from respondents in which 50 copies were made but 40 copies were retrieved. Finally, the researcher made some recommendation such as consulting the Public Relations practitioners at all times in policy-making decision and important matters concerning the bank because the good image which the bank has is through the efforts of the Public Relations practitioners. This can be solved if only the management realizes the important roles of the public relations Practitioners in organizations. When this is done, we can be sure of a conducive working environment.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Gender is a general term that refers to girls, boys, women and men. Gender can also be defined to include the roles of male and female in the society. A gender perspective in conflict would look at the way in the considerations of these different groups of people will be death with during the transitional justices process. Females experience of conflict and transitions however differ from that of the males due to gendered patterns that define different roles and experiences during both conflict and post-conflict. Whenever there are chances of difference of opinion. Gender and conflict then, refers to the ways women and men are affected in times of conflict.

Conflicting situation is a situation in which two or more values, perspectives and opinions are contradictory in nature, have not yet aligned or agreed upon yet. Conflict may be defined in many ways and can be considered as an expression of hostility, negative attitudes, antagonism, aggression, rivalry, and misunderstanding. It is also associated with situation that involves contradictory or irreconcilable interests between two opposing groups. A simple definition of conflict is that it is any tension which is experienced when one person perceives that one’s needs or desires are or are likely to be thwarted or frustrated (Gupta and Joshi, 2016)  A conflict is more than just a disagreement. It is a situation in which people perceive a threat (physical, emotional, power, status etc.) to the well-being and is caused by the differences and clash of personalities, attitudes, beliefs, values and needs. Conflicts are inherent in any interpersonal relationship; its management is integral to the performance of any organization.   Conflict management involves acquisition of skills relating to conflict resolution, self-awareness about conflict modes, conflict communication skills and establishing a structure for management of conflict in your environment. Banking industry is the backbone of any economy. Progress of any country is directly or indirectly influenced by soundness of banking system of the country. In globalized world, trade and commerce would almost be impossible with the availability of suitable banking services. The handling of conflict resolution in an organization or in the political realm of a state is a major function of public relations. It is an essential skill of public relations manager to prevent gender conflict problems rather than finding solutions when crisis erupt. The use of fire brigade approach in finding solution to problems that arises in banking sectors is described as “remedial public relations” by Haywood (1984) where as “preventive Public Relations” is what many scholars advocate in public relations practice. This is the prevention of crisis in an organization through effective communication network between the organization and its publics in order to engender understanding, acceptance, goodwill, respect, efficiency, good welfare and mutual support and its operation”. In order to handle conflict resolution in our organizations and be in a position to apply Public Relations as a strategic management option for survival and growth, Nwosu (2014) says that public relations practitioners should see themselves as managers as well as carryout their functions as skilled and knowledgeable managers in a manner similar to what or exists or is the dominant paradigm commercial organizations. This is therefore, the key to the reduction and the eradication of the unceasing crises in organizations. This is therefore, the key to the reduction and the eradication of the unceasing crises in organizations arising from areas management-employee relations management trade union relations, cultism, organizational politics, ethnic and sectional chauvinism and personality clashes. In the same vein, researchers reported that male managers preferred power and authority while female managers used communication before resorting to using power (coercion). Also female supervisors were found to use coercion less than male supervisors and often after other resolution styles do not yield desired results (Mulac, Siebold and Farris, 2015, Lamude and Towes 2016). This implies that female supervisors in First Bank tend to ultimately use coercion if necessary. The research reported that subordinates see coercive- based technique as negative while the rewarding, referent and expert-based techniques were seen as positive by the subordinates.

Reflecting on conflict management effectiveness Faniran (2013) and Adekunle (2016) reported that experienced managers were found to be more effective in management conflict situations than less experienced managers the authors further reported that working experience rather than gender of the manager has been found to have significantly influenced conflict management effectiveness. Also, the bankers argue that experienced male and female managers were found to be equally effective in managing conflict though their attitude may be quite different. First Bank solves gender issue by giving all their customers male and female change to exercise their fundamental human rights according to Bank ethics in the current dispensation of Nigeria political realm, gender is a big threat in the society, where the past and present first ladies of Nigeria has been fighting and is still fighting tooth and nail for the federal government to recognize females in the working sectors. Ladies should be given 50 chance of opportunity this chapter therefore focuses on the importance and the acquisition of necessary skills, and knowledge in conflict resolution management among organizational heads and other general crises management skills, including how to handle the media and bad press during crises in First Bank Plc, Orji, Owerri.

• Statement of the Problem

From the above background, it’s obvious that gender conflict is a negative element that is highly unwelcomed in the banking sectors. Conflict decreases growth and brings about instability in the banking industries. It brings about unhealthy competition among other Mega Banking sectors. This development is critical as foreign and domestic investors will be skeptical that their huge investment would be safe, fear and insecurity as well as lack of trust and confidence will prevail. Thus, for the continuity of development for First Bank to be guaranteed, the need for Public Relations roles in managing conflict in the First Bank cannot be over emphasized.

• Objectives of the Study

1. To search whether Public Relations plays a vital role in conflict resolution between First Bank and other Mega Banks.
2. To find out whether discrimination of sex affects the work force of First Bank plc.

III.     To investigate whether gender conflict decreases the growth and brings about instability in the Banking Industries.

1. To find out whether unhealthy competition affects the global market of banking industries in First Bank plc.

• Research Questions

1. Do Public Relations play a vital role in conflict resolution between First Bank and other Mega Banks?
2. To what extent does discrimination of sex affect the work force of First Bank plc?
3. Does unhealthy competition affect the global market of banking industries in First Bank plc, Orji Branch?
4. Does gender conflict affect the growth and brings about instability in the banking industries?

   • Hypothesis of the Study

The researcher made use of null and alternative hypothesis

1. Public Relations do not play a vital role in conflict resolution between First Bank and other Mega Banks.
2. Public Relations play a vital role in conflict resolution between First Bank and other Mega Banks
3. Discrimination of sex does not affect the work force of First Bank Plc.
4. Discrimination of sex affects the work force of First Bank Plc.

• Scope of the Study

The researcher will expose the cases of gender inequality in the banking sector with a view of providing effective measures in which issues bothering on gender inequality will be curbed. However, the study is limited to secretly syndrome in private and Public Organizations

• Limitations of the Study

It is obvious that in every research study problem has to be encountered in the course of collection of data. Therefore some of the problems encountered in the course of collection of data. Therefore some of the problems encountered in this project work include:

1. Financial problem which hindered the extent of the study
2. The time for research was limited coupled with the problem of academic work- load.
3. The nature of the respondents job

   • Significance of the Study

This study will benefit many government officials and co-operate organizations in conflict resolution and management as few work has been done on the subject. Also it will serve as a starting point for other researchers who will be interested in the subject of this research. It will also be beneficial to Orji Communities and public relations experts as more knowledge has been gained from the research. The research of this kind becomes necessary as its finding provides the Public Relation practitioners with comprehensive and broad knowledge of what could be the effect of corporate social responsibility for enhancing community relations in essence the study will serve as a useful guide for future researcher to either validate or reject the findings of the study.

• Operational Definition of Terms

The terms are operationally defined as follows: the meaning of key words that constitute the research problem and some key words that may be used frequently in the course of this research work will be defined as sub-heading to ensure proper and easy understanding of the study.

The following salient concepts have been conceptually defined for the study.

• Conflict: is an expressed struggle between at least two interdependent parties who perceive incompatible, scarce resources and interference from others in achieving their goal. (Hocker & Wilmot, 2013).
• Management: Welhrich (1994) opted management as the process of designing and maintaining an environment in which individuals working together in groups efficiently accomplish selected aims through planning, organizing, staffing, leading and controlling.
• Public Relations: according to the British institute of Public Relations (IPR) defines public relations as the deliberate, planned and sustained effect to establish and maintain mutual understanding between an organization and its various publics.
• Resolution: a firm decision to do or not to do something, the quality of being determined.
• Conflict Resolution: conflict resolution conceptualizes as the methods and processes involved in facilitating the peaceful ending of conflict.
• Gender Conflict: Gender Conflict is based on the cultural beliefs various societies have established concerning the roles men and women play in those societies.

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Pages:  67

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF

Chapters: 1-5

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References

ABSTRACT

Information Communication Technology (ICT) has the potential to contribute to development, especially in rural areas of developing countries. But the mechanisms through which ICT can be combined with development agendas and an understanding of the actual development process and impacts of ICT are less well understood or properly defined in the academic literature. The objective of this study, therefore, was to investigate the impact of 1CTs facilities and infrastructure in rural area in Nigeria. The Survey research design was adopted. A structured questionnaire was the data collection instrument adopted, Data were analyzed for frequency and percentage using the cross-tabs sub-programme of the SPSS V16. The study revealed that majority use radio, television and cell/mobile phone more than any other 1CT facility in the two locations. Findings revealed that majority of them obtained information always through radio, television and cell/mobile phone in the two locations. However, most of the respondents in the rural Community were reported to be able to use landline telephones more than cell phones. In the two locations, the respondents were capable of using radio and television very well. Respondents in both locations were able to use landline telephones more than their cell/mobile phone because of it complexity. The young set of respondents was also capable of using ICTs more than the older people. The study concludes that it is important to note that rural area still remain the focus of international observers for policy research and developments .Based on the findings, It thus recommends that government should help solve the problem of inadequate ICT infrastructure by for instance, 1CT imports duty free so that a lot of people could be able to afford them, the government needs to evolve policies aimed at bridging and encourage particularly increasing ICTs facilities penetration in rural areas.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Information and Communication Technology abbreviated as ICT consist of Information technology, enterprise software, audio-visual system, middleware using which user can access, Store, transmit and modify information as required. Exponential growth of internet user, invention of modern communication devices, significant development in cloud and grid computing etc. have helped ICT to flourish as an rapid developed technological field in the last decade. Khalil, (2008). Mass use of information and communication technology With proper guidance helps a nation to create information rich society and helps in Supporting livelihoods (Kumar, 2012). According to world bank report about 46.14% of World population are from rural area. Rural development is a systematic ongoing process of improving the quality of life by socioeconomic well being of the people living in rural areas. In this work we have mainly concentrated on the improvement of education, agricultural process, health care facility, disaster management, tourism (if exist) etc. with the help of Information and communication system and thus contributing towards economical growth and changing quality of life.

In rural Nigeria, majority of the people are poor. They are the disadvantaged and marginalized sections of society who often face impediments to use productivity enhancing resources in the same way they may lace impediments to make good use of ICT facilities and infrastructures, Gulati, Shalni (2008). Some of the constraints to ICTs facilities and infrastructures in rural Nigeria are surmountable while others require a shift in both human and organizational communication and working patterns which may take longer to change. ICTs facilities arid infrastructures rely on physical infrastructures a (electricity, telecommunications and good road network) and even when such infrastructures are in place, difficulties arise when they are poorly maintained or too costly to use. 1CIs are dependent on national policy and regulation for telecommunications and broadcasting licenses which is now receiving commendable attention in Nigeria (Obayelu A. Elijah and Ogunlade, I. (2006).

The development of the information communication and technology society and especially the impact of Information and Communication technologies (ICTs) on Spatial development is now a question of discussion. One reason for this is probably simply the fact that, as Gulati, Shalni (2008) argued, we do not understand how these technologies will shape the growth of development. Modern ICTs are newcomers and their application is still in the early stage, although rapidly increasing. Within half a century, they have changed the world and affected millions of lives in ways that no one could have ever foreseen or imagined. They have also changed the nature of work we do, the range of occupations and skills requirements, making it necessary for workers to acquire a broader, add more adaptable knowledge base etc. They are transforming the ways in which we learn, Communicate, do business, enjoy our leisure and live our everyday lives. 1Cls defining characteristics are their capacity to harness, access and apply information and diffuse knowledge at electronic speed to all types of human activities and endeavors, thereby giving rise to contemporary knowledge-based economies and societies.

According to Mittal, Surabhi. (2012), ICTs present an unprecedented opportunity to make new knowledge, services and opportunities available in underserved areas. In 1995 and 1997, the United Nations Commission on Science and Technology for Development (UNCSTD) also investigated the benefits and risks of 1CTs and the results showed many instances (Such as n health, education, banking, etc.) where its use affords widespread social and economic benefits (World Bank, 1998). The growth and development of ICT has led to their wide diffusion and application, thus increasing their economic and social impact. The OECD (2007) undertook a wide range of activities aimed at improving our understanding of how ICTs contribute to sustainable economic growth and social well-being and their role in the shift toward knowledge-based societies. It has therefore become imperative to access and use 1CTs everywhere especially in a developing Country such as Nigeria.

Information is raw material for development for both urban and rural dwellers. Prosperity, progress, and development of any nation depend upon the nation’s ability to acquire, produce, access, and use pertinent information. A report on older rural people (2008:3) indicates that, “Access to information and advice is a key resource for local people in maintaining active and independent lives. Access to information is also critical to letting people know their entitlements to welfare benefits and sources of support to overcome social exclusion.” Information is the lifeblood of any society and vital to the activities of both the government and private sectors. The development of countries globally cannot be achieved without the development of the rural community. This is because 75 to 80 percent of the people in developing countries live in the rural areas need positive, relevant and prompts attention in their daily activities.

No serious, active, conscious, sensitive, and organized government would want to neglect rural communities. Lack of development has a positive correlation with the neglect of rural areas. Rural neglects brings negative consequences Such as exodus of rural dwellers to urban areas, with resulting problems of unemployment, crimes, prostitution, child labor, insecurity, money laundering, bribery, poverty, proliferation of shanty living areas, spread of diseases, and overstretching of the facilities and infrastructures in the urban areas. Any nation that neglects the development and empowerment of the rural communities Should not expect meaningful development.  Alegbeleye and Aina (1985: 13) reiterated that the third world countries have recently come to realize that unless the rural areas are well developed, hardly would any meaningful development occur in these countries. Development can only be effective if rural dwellers have access to the relevant, diverse information for their activities. Efforts must be made to give access to knowledge and information by non-literates who constitute the majority of rural dwellers. Okiyı (2003:1) says that, “Rural development is a basis for economic development and information is an important ingredient in development process. People in rural areas whether literate or not should have access to any kind of information which will help them to become capable and productive in their social and political obligations, to become better informed citizens generally. ”

In the Nigerian context, accessibility to information by both urban and rural communities is stated in its development plans. But with emphasis to the support of government propaganda and many programmes that are not fully relevant to the development of rural communities. The information received by the rural dwellers is either not reliable or distorted in the process of transmission. This unhealthy Situation constitutes a major impediment, which keep the rural communities in Nigeria and other developing far away from development indicators. The developed countries undertake rural projects to reduce the gap between the urban and the rural communities to the barest minimum. A report on a rural project (2007) outlined that, “Access to and the ability to use information and knowledge are not equally distributed (between urban and rural communities).About seven million adults in England are judged to be functionally illiterates. Affluent families are far more likely to be able to give their children access to b0oks, computers, and the internet than poorer families. If we do not guard against it, the economic returns from Knowledge and skills will go disproportionately to those groups and places that are already rich in both.”

They require initial capital investment for hardware and software. They are also dependent on the Skills and capacity necessary to use, manage and maintain the technology effectively. Matching the most appropriate communications technology with people’s needs and capabilities is a crucial task for ICT providers in Nigeria. These conditions are hardly met in the rural areas of Nigeria. I he information communication technology (1CT) revolution has had divergent impact in almost every area human endeavour. From business, industry, government and non-profit organization. ICT has simplified business processes such as sorting, summarizing, coding, editing, Customized and generic report generation in a real-time processing mode. However, ICT has also brought unintended criminal activities such as spamming, ATM fraud in to the rural areas in Nigeria. This study seeks to identify impact assessment of ICI and infrastructure facilities in rural areas in Nigeria in sub Saharan African With a view to assess success of the ICT n the rural areas. Today’s business environment is very dynamic and undergoes rapid changes as a result of technological innovation, increased awareness and demands from customers. Information Technology (IT) is the automation of processes, controls, and information production using computers, telecommunications, software and ancillary equipment such as automated teller machine and debit cards Khalifa (2000). It is a term that generally covers the harnessing of electronic technology for the information needs of a business at all levels.

Information and communication technologies (particularly computers and the internet) are widely acknowledged as important resources for socio-economic advancement in both developed and developing countries. This is doubly so against the backdrop of the global economy which is driven by the “information age”. Developing countries, however, face enormous challenges in their ability to utilize these resources for their growth and development agenda. Limitations range from infrastructural constraints to an individual’s ability to convert access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) into tangible benefits in light of other environmental constraints. In this context, shared use models of access such as telecentres, libraries and internet cafes, are important means of making ICTs available. Not only do they bring the technology closer (physically and financially) to people who would otherwise have no access, but they may also provide additional value in the teaching and learning environments they foster.

ICT’s facilities and infrastructures therefore, is a very vital resource in human activities. The need and consequent use of ICTs facilities and infrastructures has contributed immensely to the growth and development of the world in all spheres, agriculture inclusive. Research results are frequently communicated to the end-users in channels that are applicable. In agriculture the extension activities serve as the link between policy makers and scientist/researchers on the other hand, and end-users on the other hand. Ekoja, 2000 was of the view that, “information dissemination form a core activity in extension service”.

There is a general consensus among experts in ICTs facilities (Ekoja, 2000) that; information is a factor to be reckoned with in improving the agricultural services in any state. Therefore, it is the provision of timely information that will occupy a prominent position in the hierarchy of priorities in Nigeria. Ekoja (2000) highlighted (that, “much as agricultural information is important making it available for the intended end-users is equally important”.

Hence one of the agencies or services put in place to diffuse agricultural information in Nigeria is agricultural extension services.

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Over the years, deliberate, though ineffective efforts have been made by various regimes in the Nigerian government to bring about ICTs facilities and infrastructural development without much to show for it. Much of the failure can be attributed to the treatment of information delivery by the Nigerian government, Information is essential ingredients in rural development programs but Nigerian rural seldom feels the impact of ICTs facilities and infrastructural innovations either because they may not have access to such vital ICTs facilities or because it is poorly disseminated.

Studies by different researchers in shows that ICTs have helped Smallholder farmers to adopt new technologies including new varieties and also to access market and other important information.

The extension system in Imo state, like in many other parts of Nigeria, is also gradually changing to the use of ICTs to deliver appropriately packaged agricultural information to farmers so as to improve agricultural productivity. In a study by Mtega and Msungu (2013) established that ICTs are suitable for the provision and dissemination of agricultural information among farmers due to a number of services they offer, portability, infrastructural coverage and affordability. However, the study did not describe how effective the ICTs are in terms of accessibility, as well as the relevance and timeliness of the information provided. Understanding ICTs’ effectiveness would therefore help the extension system to properly utilize them to convey agricultural information as required by farmers. It can also be guiding the extension workers on which ICTs or combination to use.

The non-provision of ICTs facilities and infrastructural, lack of available teaching aids, Electricity, non-provision of essential inputs, capital as well as personnel motivation and evaluation of ICTs facilities programmes are some of the key factors that has greatly limited ICTs facilities in the rural development in Nigeria. This research therefore is to investigate the impact assessment of ICT facilities and infrastructures in rural area of Nigeria and to test how both ICT facilities and infrastructures factors influence Nigeria towards achieving development.

1.3 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF STUDY

The main objective of this study is to determine the access of farmers to ICTs available in the study area.

However, the specific objectives of the study are to:

1. Determine the level of farmers possession/accessibility and reception of ICT components in the study area.
2. Determine the extent of agricultural information received by the respondents from the ICTs in the study area.

• Examine the farmers problems on ICTs possession/accessibility for agricultural development

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. Has the increase in telephone lines made any significant impact on the growth of GDP in Nigeria?
2. Does the employment rate exert a significant impact on GDP growth in Nigeria?

STATE OF THE HYPOTHESIS

For the guidance of the research to search for the appropriate data relevant to the study under review, the following tentative assumptions are held:

1. Increase in the number of telephones lines has made no significant impact on the growth of GDP in Nigeria.
2. Unemployment rate does not exert a significant impact on GDP growth in Nigeria.

1.5 STATEMENT OF HYPOTHESES

HYPOTHESIS ONE

Ho:    There is no relationship between problems or challenges faced by Nigerians on ICT facilities and infrastructure?

Hi:     There is relationship between problems or challenges faced by Nigerians on ICT facilities and infrastructure?

HYPOTHESES TWO

Ho:    There are no benefits of using ICTs facilities in the rural areas of Nigeria?

Hi:     There benefits of using ICTs facilities in the rural areas of Nigeria?

HYPOTHESIS THREE

Ho:    There are no ICTs facilities and infrastructure that have access to in rural areas in Nigeria?

Hi:     There are ICTs facilities and infrastructure that have access to in rural areas in Nigeria?

1.6. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDDY

The findings of this study highlight the effectiveness of radio, television and mobile phones in disseminating information to rural dwellers who are mostly farmers. This will enable farmers and extension staff to be in a position to understand the importance of these ICTs in extension services and hence be able to fully utilize their potential to complement other extension and knowledge services.

This research also provides evidence based on methodological assessment of the effectiveness of ICT’s in delivering agricultural information to smallholder farmers. It is therefore projected that the study will help the policy makers and the government to design policies and programs that use the right mix of ICTs available for agricultural extension service delivery. This will lead to the improvement of agricultural extension service provision for better farm productivity.

Furthermore, the study will help the extension staff to properly utilize the present ICTs to provide critical access to knowledge, information and technology that farmers require in their farming activities.

1.7 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study 1s limitedly narrowed to impact of information communication technology on the development of rural areas in Nigeria.

1.8. DEFINITION OF CONCEPTS

Effectiveness:  The ability to bring a desired result. Under this study effectiveness reflect the ability of ICT to bring about timely and relevant agricultural information to the farmers for improved livelihood.

Smallholder farmers:  are farm households that own and/or cultivate less than 2 hectares of land

Livelihood:  A set of activities that help the smallholder farmers to secure their basic necessities that is food, Shelter and clothing; and the capacity to acquire the named necessities to meet the requirements of the self and his/her household on a sustainable basis with dignity.

Agricultural Productivity:  is measured as the ratio of agricultural outputs to agricultural inputs

ICT:  Information and Communication Technology abbreviated as ICT Consist of Information technology, enterprise software, audio-visual system, middleware using which user can access, store, transmit and modify information as required.

Information:  Information is defined knowledge acquired or supplied about something or somebody (Ukonu, And Wogu, 2008)

Technology:  The branch of knowledge dealing with scientific and industrial method and their practical use in industry.

Hardware:  They are the physical components of a computer system, which can be seen and felt. Examples are keyb0ard, printer, monitor, mouse etc

Software:  they are programs developed by the computer programmers, With the main function of igniting life in a computer system, and aiding in having a task done. They are classified under operating system and application system programs.

Programs:  This are logically related instruction that are giving to the computer to carry out a specific task.

Automated system:  This 1S a system whereby everything works machinery and without the effort/works of men.

 Automation:  the act or practice of using machines, that need little or no human control e.g in office.

Computerize:  to store information in a computer or to control regulate an operation

Communication: This is the process of passing information form one person.

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Pages:  49

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF

Chapters: 1-5

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References

ABSTRACT

The study examined the Influence of Orient FM OWERRI you and your health programme on the residents of OWERRI Municipal Council, in carrying out this research study, the researcher employed survey method in which she used questionnaire to gather her data. The population of the study comprised the entire resedents of Owerri Municipal council which was one hundred and seventy two thousand, six hundred (172,600) which a sample of 399 was drawn. The researcher asked a research question and formulated research question, hypothesis to guide the study. Relevant literature was reviewed for the study. Data collected were presented and analyzed and hypothesis tested on the following findings were made that: Residents of OWERRI Municipal Council are exposed to ‘you and your health programme on Orient FM to a very great extent.

Listenership of Orient FM “you and your health” programme influences residents of OWERRI Municipal Council to be health conscious; engaging in constant medical check-ups as well as ensuring healthy living.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

Be it as it may, it is imperative to note undoubtedly that health is a complex concept that involves not just the sounds of a person’s body but also the state of a person’s mind and the quality of the social environment in which he or she lives. Good health and effective medical care are essential for the smooth functioning of the society. Social inequality characterizes the quality of health and the quality of healthcare.

Noticeably, according to Okunna (2017), the practice of public health has been dynamic in Nigeria and has witness any fireflies in its attempt to effect the lives of people in the country.

Meanwhile, since independence, major public health problems like malaria, tuberculosis, leprosy high maternal and child mortality and lately human immune deficiency virus (HIV) have been addressed through a concerted action of the government. According to Naveena (2015), social development coupled with scientific advances in the mortality rates and birth rate.

Be it as it may, Nigeria isn’t of the countries over which the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are developing sleepless rights concerning the realization of the Millennuim Development Goal (MDG) and progressive the sustainable Development Goal (SDG) on the health matters in 2020. The permission id due to the country’s soaring poor health care systems. Records from both organizations clearly show that Nigeria in terms of maternal mortality os only better than India (Maamaa and Akurega, 2016). This is not surprising as health is only given little or no premium and it occupies no pride of place in the priority list of the present administration.

Consequently, Dada (2005) quotes UNICEF as saying that Allison not well with Nigeria’s health sector.

This has led to the incident and high prevalence of illness which is usually caused by lack of functional information on vital health conditions, especially among rural dwellers.

According to Anofi (2010), the federal ministry of health is concerned over cholera HIV/Aids, meningitis and polio. Agreeing with this, Abudlsalami (2010) asserts that cholera and HIV/AIDS are deadly diseases that will kill many in the country. He further states that ,1185 cases of cholera occurred on Lugu village of Sokoto state with 9 deaths recorded. On his part, harmuna (2010) states that cholera is a notorious disease that breaks out in the county every year.

Other Diseases that are prevalent in the country according to WHO (2017) are: diabetes, cancer, arthritis, liver and kidney disease as well as hypertension. Each year, there are more cases of these diseases particularly by HIV/AIDS and malaria which shows that the people are either not learning the messages about these illnesses or are unable or unwilling to act on them. Many are dangerously ignorant about the symptoms and side effects of these illness. Knowledge has a key role to play both in preventing such diseases and in mitigating their side effects on individuals families, communities and the society.

According to Trough, Ichijo and Nomaka (2000), knowledge is known to improve decision making speed innovations unleash new ideas and accelerate learning.

The thinking therefore is that sound radio health programmes which are aimed at providing knowledge about health related issues will help improve the health related issues will help improve the health of the people Particularly those in the rural areas who suffer from poor health practices serious illness and disabilities.

What this means is that, in most communities whether urban or rural in the country, serious concerns and challenges exist in the areas of public health, family planning, HIV/aids and sexually transmitted diseases. Crystal clear from the beginning it is the fact that people in Nigeria face debilitating quality of life occasioned by the lack of knowledge on most illness. It is therefore natural that under such critical conditions, they will seek for beneficial information on these health issues from sources that they consider as credible and the mass media on inevitably their first source of such information.

The basic function of the mass media according to Brown (2015): to provide information, education, instruction and entertainment to the people. Media also motivate people directly or indirectly to discharge these functions as well as interactive user feedback, creative participation in a meaningful and purposeful manner in any nation for national development and in Nigeria considering the electricity misnomer, radio being a sub-stratum of the mass media, appears to be very significant to both urban and rural dwellers (Ayo, 2017).

According to Onabanjo (2002), the radio has positioned itself as the most accessible and most information patronized medium of mass communication in developing countries including Nigeria.

According to UNESCO (2001), radio performs the traditional functions of the mass media which include but not limited to the following: information, education, entertainment, socialization, motivation, debate and discussion and integration.

Radio because of its immediacy ubiquity and capacity to reach a large scattered and anonymous audience simultaneously, provides an excellent way of keeping people well informed of current events. It plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and supplies information on basic developmental needs which enrich the life styles of its audience (Nnamdi, 2015).

Indeed information gained from radio competitively influence attitudes and perception in such vital area as health. Apart from satisfying the educational information and entertainment needs of the society, radio is a particularly strong medium both with the general and specialized audience in the society. The society is influenced and the opinions of many are shaped by the messages and information they receive from the radio via its programs ( Moemeka 2015).

Baran (2004) describes a programme as basic product of radio station offers its audience and identifies radio programs to include; health, religion, magazine, culture and sports. On their part, Dominic, Sherman , Copeland (2007) say it is through programs that radio stations reach their target audience .

Examples of radio programmes as identified by Uganda (2006) are: news, interviews, discussion, magazine, documentary, drama and health. Specifically, in the area of health most of the campaigns for healthy living such as child immunization, family planning, the creation of awareness about the deadly HIV/aids pandemic, malaria campaigns, the need to avoid some health hazards such as unprotected sex and cigarette smoking are all communicated to the populace through radio health programmes

It is against this background that Orient FM Owerri has on its menu a variety of health programmes Heal the world, You and your health and Let them Live. Of these programmes, “You and your health” is specifically a sponsored programme by Dr Richard Okolie designed to discuss health matters that mostly affect people in recent times. In other words, it tries to create awareness of pandemics in the state; highlighting discussing and providing solutions to the different health issues prevalent in the society.

There is need to mention that many health campaigns involve a wide range of innovations and investment have been launched by successive governments in Nigeria, as a contribution to the improvement of the quality of life of rural people. Programmes such as the National program on immunization (NPI), control of Diarrhoeal Disease (CDD), Role Back Malaria, population and family planning, Reproductive health, STD/AIDS, condom social marketing, etc have been launched by the Federal government in consonance with the goals and objectives of the National Health Policy, which is based on primary health care.

An evaluation of some of these programmes which were proudly launched reveals that they did not enjoy maximum acceptance, support and utilization (Imoh, 2008).

Even though public awareness of the existence and efficacy of these national health programme is relatively high, some people will not utilize the health service provided even if they are given free of charge.

Notably, according to Eze (2017), several factors may be responsible for this anomaly, one major constraint to the effectiveness of their health campaigns at the national and local level, is the lack of effectives communication between the polity and decision makers in health, implementers and users of health services. Because of this lack of effective communication, efforts at mobilizing the masses for health action have lagged somewhat behind the technical and operational aspects of the pregramme, such that communication involvement and participation in health programmes has been taken for granted.

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The prevalence and incidence of various health problems hitting the landscape of Nigeria society year in year out have reached alarming propositions. In fact, Nigeria’s committed are at risk because, as NACA (2010) observes, the country’s population of over 140 million people face a number of endemic that could easily spin out of control. Nigeria has the third highest Gonzalez burden of HIV/Aids as 2.95 million of her population is living with the disease.

A number of Nigerian suffer through various health issues which could have been avoided if proper health campaigns on various communication media are done. That is it is expected above all odds that various mass media day in day out carry out campaign that further inform and educated the masses on their health

Be it as it may “You and your health programme on Oriented FM has been of significant influence over time on listens particularly as the programme exposes them to the various health related issues and how best to prevent themselves from infections. But what is of significant interest in this study is whether the influence of Orient FM Owerri You and Your Health Program on the Residents of Owerri Municipal Council is positive helping them solve their various health Challenges or negative; putting them in the dark of health related issue. Herein lies the thrust of this study.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The objective a of the study where to:

1. Find out whether residents of Owerri Municipal Council are exposed to Orient FM Owerri You and your health programme.
2. To determine the extent to which residents of Owerri Municipal Council are exposed to Orient FM “You and your health programme.
3. To examine whether Orient FM you and your health programme influences the health behavior of the residents of Owerri Municipal Council.
4. To ascertain the extent to which Orient FM You and your health programme influences the health behavior of the residents of Owerri Municipal Council.
5. To discover the influence of Orient FM Owerri You and your health programme on the health behavior of residents of Owerri Municipal council.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The following research questions where enhanced.

1. Are the residents of Owerri Municipal Council exposes to Orient FM you and your health programme?
2. To what extent are residents of Owerri Municipal Council exposed to Orient FM you and your health programme ?
3. Does Orient FM “you and your health programme” influence the residents of Owerri municipal Council?
4. To what extent does orient FM “You and your health programme influence the health behavior of the residents of Owerri Municipal Council ?
5. What is the influence of Orient FM “you and your health programme on the health behavior of the residents of Owerri Municipal Council ?

1.5 REASEACH HYPOTHESIS

Ho:   There is a significant influence of You and your health Program on the

health behaviour of residents of Owerri municipal Council.

Hi:     There is no significant influence of You and Your Health Program on the

health behavious of residents of Owerri Municipal Council.

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The study was carried out to investigate the influence of Orient FM Owerri “you and your health program on the residents of Owerri musician council. The findings and revelations of this study are however, significant in a number of ways.

First, the study will reveal to Dr. Richard Okolie the Presenter and sponsor of the programme  the level influence his programme has on the residents of Owerri and possible ways to make the programme more influencing.

Second, the study will reveal to the programmes department of other radio stations on the need to air health related programmes, so as to help increase the health consciousness of residents of Owerri.

This study will reveal to state government and non- governmental organizations, health agencies and concerned health practitioners the prevalent health issues and providing a link for quick action against them.

This study will furthermore enlighten the people on the need to listen to health programmes on radio.

The study will reveal to residents of Owerri and beyond the need to be health conscious and give more time to listenership of health programmes as well as engage in constant checkup at registered healthcare centers and hospitals.

Finally, this study will serve as reference material to further researchers who will find related areas of this study interesting to investigate as well as add substantially to academic and media knowledge.

1.7 DELIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

This study was restricted to investigating the influence of Orient FM Owerri you and your health programme on the residents of Owerri Municipal Council. The study restricted its scope to ascertaining only the influence of Orient FM Owerri “You and your health programme” posses. The influence could be either positive or negative dependent on the findings of this study. Thus, no other factor was considered in this study aside the influence factor.

Furthermore, the study chose to restrict its scope to only Orient FM Owerri “You and your health programme” to other radio stations in Owerri or any other programme in Orient FM Owerri or elsewhere was consider necessary in this study.

Also, the study was restricted to only resident a of Owerri Municipal Council. No other municipal Council residents in Imo state or beyond was considered in this study.

However, the researcher hopes that such delimitations will enhance accuracy of data and enhance direction of investigation of this study.

1.8 LIMITATIONS OF THIS STUDY

In the course of carrying out this research, a lot of problems is encountered. The first major encumbrance is that time within which the work is expected to be completed, coupled with the fact that the research was been done alongside normal academic work.

Another major challenge is the request of financial benefits from the respondents before filling out copies of the questionnaire distributed to them as well as the challenge of retrieving copies of the distributed questionnaire from the respondents on slated dates time of retrieval as some of the respondents were nowhere to be found.

Another is the challenge get of finance due to the present inflationary trends to the country’s transportation problems and risks of being on the Owerri roads to the related respondents of the study for retrieval of questionnaire copies.

In spite of the above setbacks, the researcher was able to put them under control ensuring none of the challenges interfered with the findings of data presented and analyzed.

1.9 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

The following terms were operationally defined for clarity purpose.

 INFLUENCE: The capacity to have an effect on the character, development or behaviour of someone or something, or the effect itself.  The impact of Orient FM “you and your health on the residents of Owerri Municipal council. It could be negative or positive.

Orient FM 94.5: Imo Broadcasting Cooperation (IBC) Orient FM Is a state-owned Radio station. it is the radio station that airs the programme “you and your health”.

PROGRAM: A programme is a product or content intended for broadcast media. In this study, it is the “you and your health ” programme of Orient FM Owerri.

RESIDENTS: Those who reside in Owerri municipal council, who therefore listen to Orient FM “you and your health programme”. These areas include; Orji, Okigwe Road, Wetheral road and Tetlow.

OWERRI MUNICIPAL COUNCIL:  Owerri municipal is a Local Government Area in Imo State, Nigeria its headquarters is in the city of Owerri. It is therefore the selected council for this study.

YOU AND YOUR HEALTH: One of the sponsored programs of Dr Richard Okolie of Save A Life Foundation in Orient FM Owerri.

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Pages:  79

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF

Chapters: 1-5

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References

ABSTRACT

The course for digitization presently governs the global media industry. Initially all countries in the world have devoted enormous resources to see their broadcasting media industries switch from analogue to digital technologies. Viewing the immense prospects of this technological revolution, the ITU set 2015 for the entire broadcasting station in the world go digital. While a good number of first world countries have virtually accomplish their digital migration, most third world countries including Nigeria are still struggling to meet up with this global digital revolution. In view of this situation, it appears interesting to explore literatures on digitalization and examine the extent to which the Nigerian broadcasting media has been digitized. This paper assesses the strategies initiated by the Nigerian Government and major broadcasting media industry in Nigeria in view of accomplishing the complex digitization scheme. It argues that Nigerian match towards digitization is on. A number of milestones that have been recorded including the definition of a legal and operational framework for the digitization process, the introduction by multiple media houses of webcasting and the entrance in the country’s broadcasting industry of cable and satellite pay TV operators. Despite these considerable efforts, there is definitely much to be done especially in the domain of sensitizing the broadcasters on the use, control and maintaining of the complex digital equipment. Also, the paper analyzed and examined the extent at which digitization has impacted in operations of broadcast media practitioners in Nigeria. This paper is sourced from both the primary and secondary sources. The primary source involves interviews with media practitioners and stakeholders while the secondary is sourced from libraries, archives, newspapers, magazines and other desk study. Moreover, the researcher also sourced through online materials on digitization. The study concludes that for digital broadcasting to be successful here in Nigeria users should be educated about the technology and segment operators should also see the opportunities of being educated as a privilege to be equipped adequately against the challenges of digitalization. The paper identified number of challenges. This includes lack of skilled manpower, the slow elaboration of the working legal framework, etcetera. It concludes by recommending a number of strategies actions that may help surmount challenges identified in the paper.

CHAPTER ONE

• Background to the Study

The term “Broadcasting” refers to the planned provision of information, education and entertainment to a large and heterogeneous audience through the medium of radio and television (Folarin, 1999:30). The word “planned” presupposes that programmes are provided repeatedly at scheduled or prescribed formats and at designated periods. Broadcasting does not only involve the provision of information, education and entertainment, rather it is also a strong vehicle for cultural promotion, mobilization of citizenry for development purposes, fighting societal ills and unethical conducts and so on (Wilson, 1997). Broadcasting is a term borrowed from the agricultural method of sowing seeds in the field by casting them broadly about (Douglas, 1989) cited in Nkwam-Uwaoma and Onu (2017). Broadcasting therefore conjure such meaning as “scatter”, “sow”, “disperse”, “spread”, “distribute”, “disseminate” and so on.

Broadcasting is a means of distribution or dissemination of ideas, messages, or information: the same that newspaper, magazines, film and books do.

But while these other means of mass communication do not use radio waves and electronic technology, broadcasting uses electronic technology to encode, distribute and decode its messages or content.

It is therefore an entirely electronic means of communication. Hence, Onabanjo (2000) cited in Nkwam-Uwaoma and Onu (2017) defines broadcasting as the transmission of information through radio waves from a radio or television station to the audience in far and near places through their receivers, which help in decoding such information. It is therefore the distribution of audio, visual or both audio and visual (audio-visual) content or information to a dispersed audience through any electronic mass communication medium. It should be borne in mind that broadcasting communicates with masses. Hence, Onabanjo (2004) cited in Nkwam-Uwaoma and Onu (2017) emphasizes the “Large widely dispersed and heterogeneous audience”.

Broadcasting conveys the ideas of:

• Distribution of audio and video messages
• To a dispersed audience
• Via an electronic mass communication medium
• Which uses electro-magnetic spectrum
• In a one-to-many model

It is one of the greatest technological marvels of human society. Its technology involves the use of a transmitter which generate waves, that is electromagnetic impulses which carry voice transmissions or messages through the air to homes and other locations where they are received and consumed by their audience through the broadcasting media-radio or television.

Broadcasting can also be defined as “the systematic dissemination of entertainment, information, education and other features for simultaneous reception by a scattered audience, individually or in group with appropriate receiving apparatus. The matter may either be audible, or visual or a combination of both”.

Today, the trends in the broadcasting industry are those of computing, digitization and wireless. The word “digital”, according to Bolarinwa (2001), is derived from “digitus” which means “finger”- a part of the body used for counting. The digital techniques allows for the transmission of audio, video, and other data without distortion or errors, since its description is not changed or disturbed by factors such as noise.

Digital broadcasting, therefore, involves the application of computer and other related technologies to improve broadcast signal transmission and reception (Adegbola, 2001). In digital broadcasting, data of any type and source can be made to undergo diverse methods of processing in order to yield the desired information for various kinds of users. Such data, representing audio or video signals, can be carried in either the traditional terrestrial media, by satellites or by cable distribution networks.

The impact of digitization, according to World Broadcast News (1999), is seen in the convergence, internet/data casting issues, satellite globalization and broadcast regulatory changes.

Adegbola (2001:10) states that the most prominent among the advantages of digitization is the efficient use of wireless bandwidth. According to him, a single channel slot of 8 MHz in terrestrial video broadcast can accommodate five programme streams of digital video. Thus, it allows for a geometric expansion of programme streams.

Furthermore:

1. Digitization allows for the use of redundant pockets of spaces to be utilized in the transmission of texts simultaneously with visual and audio information. These spare spaces may also be used for telecommunication services which operators can make available to broadcasters.
2. Digital signals versatility can allow a viewer to request a programme to be shown at his or her convenience. This has brought a fundamental change to the way programmes are scheduled, since the user creates his or her own viewing time.
3. Digitization has allowed conditional access to programmes as can be seen in such services as pay-per-view.
4. It has a wide capacity for error detection and correction.
5. Digital broadcasting allows the broadcast industry to provide more programme channels and increases other options, to meet the growing taste and desires of their audiences.
6. Digital broadcasting allows for better quality signals that are less vulnerable to distortion from environmental conditions. Digital signals give sharper pictures, wide-screen and high sound quality.
7. Digital broadcasting empowers stations to provide viewers with interactive services ultimately to elicit wider participation and deeper viewer engagement.
8. Digitization accommodates large data which are also transmitted at optimum quality level. Thus, it allows for efficient use of the radio spectrum and requires less than one percent of the power used by analogue system.

There are several technologies in the industry that embody this new processes such as, Digital Terrestrial Broadcasting (DTTB), which is a new type of television broadcasting that provides a more effective way of transmitting services; Advance Television Systems Committee (ATSC); Digital Video Broadcasting and Digital Broadcasting Expert Group (DIBEG

1.2  Statement of Problem

Digitization of broadcasting has increasingly paved the way and created impact in the communication world.

However, as a relatively new and indeed vast field, the digitization of broadcasting in Nigeria has encountered lots of impediments. The most impressing impediment militating against quick and efficient conversion from analogue to digital system is the lack of funds experienced by most broadcast stations. This may tend to slow down the challenge-over processes.

The non-compliance of the broadcast stations in the usage of digital equipment in Nigeria is far from encouraging, when compared to some other developing countries in Latin America’, South Africa, India, and some South American countries. This is certainly responsible for the sharp information imbalance between the developing and the developed countries in terms of news coverage, dissemination and information flow.

It is against these backdrops, that this study, guided by the objectives below sought to find out the various challenges posed by digitization of broadcasting in Nigeria, with particular focus on Orient FM and NTA Channel 12, Owerri, Imo State.

1.3  Objectives of the Study

In a broader perspective, this study aims at assessing digitization of broadcasting and its challenges, with particular reference to Orient FM and NTA Channel 12, Owerri.

1. To investigate the state of digitization in the broadcast stations.
2. To ascertain the level of exposure of the media practitioners on the use, control and maintenance of the digital equipment.
3. Investigate the possible implications of digital broadcasting on programme and content production.
4. To find out possible challenges of digital broadcasting transition among broadcast media in Nigeria.

   • Research Question

The study was guided by the following research questions:

1. What is the state of digitization in the broadcast stations?
2. What is the level of exposure of the media practitioners on the use, control and maintenances of the digital equipment?
3. What are the possible implications of full digitization on programming and content production?
4. What possible challenges will the digital broadcasting pose for broadcast media practitioners in Nigeria?

   • Significance of the Study

The study will provide media owners, planners, and practitioners good reason to complete the digitization of broadcasting in Nigeria. It will enable the media practitioners to know the full benefits of digitization and how to optimize it in programmes production and distribution.

It will serve as a reference material for present and future broadcasters, researcher, scholars and students of mass communication and allied disciplines.

Finally, the research findings will add to the existing literature in the area of digitization of broadcasting in Nigeria.

• Scope of the Study

This study focuses on digitization of broadcasting and its challenges to broadcast media in Nigeria. It is practically hard to study all the broadcast stations in the country. In view of this, the researcher uses Orient FM Owerri and NTA Channel Owerri all located at Concord Avenue along Akachanwa road, Owerri Municipal in Imo State as a case of study given the fact that the stations are government owned stations and have been in operation before the issue of digitization has come about.

• Limitation of the Study

 Financial constraint

Insufficient fund impeded the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature of information and in the process of data collection (Internet, questionnaire and interview).

Time constraint

The researcher simultaneously engages in this study with other academic work. This consequently cut down on the time devoted for the research work. Time factor also posed its own challenge due to the distance of the area of coverage of the study, coupled with the physical and psychological stresses.

Also, limitation to obtain relevant materials for the subject matter.

• Definition of Terms

Conceptual Definition of Digitization:

Digitization is the process of converting information into a digital format, in which the information is organized into bits.

Conceptual Definition of Broadcasting

This is the systematic dissemination of entertainment, information, education, and other features for simultaneous reception by a scattered audience, individually or in groups, with appropriate receiving apparatus. The subject matter may either be audio or visual or a combination of both.

Operational Definition of Digitization

Digitization in broadcasting is the practice of using digital sidnals rather than analogue signals for broadcasting over radio frequency bands.

Operational Definition of Broadcasting:

Broadcasting is the distribution of audio and video content to a dispersed audience via radio, television, receiving parties may include the general public or a relatively large subset thereof.

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Pages:  84

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF

Chapters: 1-5

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References