INFLUENCE OF PROLIFERATING CITIZEN JOURNALISM ON CONVENTIONAL MEDIA IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital communication technologies and the widespread use of social media platforms have significantly transformed the journalism landscape, giving rise to citizen journalism as an alternative source of news and information dissemination. This study examined the influence of proliferating citizen journalism on conventional media practice in Kogi State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the extent to which citizen journalism influences the news agenda of conventional media, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and its implications for media credibility. The study was anchored on Reverse Agenda-Setting Theory and adopted a survey research design. A census approach was employed, involving the entire population of 186 registered journalists in Kogi State. Out of this number, 181 valid responses were obtained through the administration of structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean scores and standard deviations, while a hypothesis was tested using One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Findings revealed that citizen journalism has become a major force in shaping the news agenda of conventional media, as issues first reported by citizens often attract mainstream media attention. The study further found that citizen journalism presents challenges such as misinformation, ethical concerns, and difficulties in maintaining professional standards. The study concludes that citizen journalism serves as both a challenge and a resource to conventional media practice. It recommends stronger verification mechanisms, strategic collaboration with responsible citizen journalists, and increased digital adaptation by conventional media organizations to sustain credibility, professionalism, and public trust in the evolving media environment.