Usage of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in the Nigerian Print Media Operations

This study is aimed at exploring the usage of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in the Nigerian print media operations. The specific objectives are to identify the ICT forms that are currently in use, and to find out the current uses of ICTs by Nigerian newspapers and magazines. The survey research
method was adopted using the questionnaire and oral interview as instruments for data collection. Deductions from the data generated by the study lead to the conclusion that, modern ICTs are relevant to print media operations especially newsgathering, processing and dissemination. The dominant ICT forms in use by print journalists undeniably impact on the operations of the print media in the areas of in-depth and speedy coverage of events, improved picture quality, wider readership and circulation as well as more advertising revenue. Notwithstanding the foregoing imperatives of ICTs in print media operations, the study again concludes that, ICT tools are not adequately and appropriately developed towards attainment of pre-determined organizational goals. The fact that ICT adoption among the Nigerian print media fails below the appreciable standards of adequacy is explained by obvious constraints of inadequate funding, illiteracy as well as lack of expertise and lack of training and retraining opportunities.This study strengthens the theoretical bases of Roger’s Innovation Adoption Theory. The theory which provided the theoretical framework for this study identified the process of information sharing and attitude of members of a social system to adoption of innovation as sole factors that can influence people’s thoughts and actions in the process of adopting such a new technology.

Keywords: ICTs, Magazines, Newspapers, Print Media.