International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Climate change is one of the most pressing global issues of our time, with far-reaching consequences for the environment, human health, and economic development. The media play crucial role in shaping public awareness and understanding of climate change, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. In Nigeria, newspapers remain a significant source of information for the public, and their coverage of climate change can influence public perception and policy decisions. However, there is paucity of scholarly studies on how Nigerian newspapers report climate change, as well as wether their coverage is accurate, comprehensive, and informative.
Objective: This study was a content analysis of climate change reporting in two prominent Nigerian national dailies - The Punch and The Guardian from September to November, 2022.
Method: The study adopted content analysis. A total of 65 editions of the papers were published between September and November 2022 out of which 12 editions were randomly selected and analysed.
Result: Findings show that the frequency of reports on climate change during the period under review was relatively high possibly because of the COP27 that took place within the period. The result further indicates that the dominant reporting pattern was straight news which could not provide detailed analysis and interpretations required for deep knowledge of climate change and the required attitude and behavioural changes.
Conclusion: The study concludes that the dominant adoption of straight news in reporting climate change issues in the newspapers could not allow for indepth interpretation for broader knowledge of the required actions and implications of exhibiting a laissez-faire attitude towards the ecosystem.
Unique contribution: This study has provided fresh insights into the quality and quantity of climate change coverage in Nigeria. It is hoped that this fresh insights will be found useful by policymakers. It will also help in improving media reporting on this critical issue.
Key recommendation: the study recommends for more comprehensive studies that focus not just on straight news, but interpretations and news analysis to broaden readers understanding of climate change and more informed positive actions towards protection and preservation of the environment.