NIGERIANS, WE FORGET TOO SOON by Peter Olukayode Leo

Introduction: 

As Nigerians, we are often characterized by our resilience, our vibrancy, and our ability to bounce back from adversity. However, one of the concerning traits that has emerged over the years is our tendency to forget critical events and lessons from our past. Today, I want to explore this phenomenon, its implications, and how we can foster a culture of remembrance that informs our future.

Historical Context:

To understand the present, we must look at our past. Nigeria has a rich history filled with significant events that have shaped our national identity. For instance, the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970 was a pivotal moment. The memories of this tragic event, which resulted in the loss of millions of lives, should serve as a constant reminder of the need for unity and peace. Yet, as time passes, the lessons of the war often fade from collective memory.

More recently, the #EndSARS protests of October 2020 brought to the forefront issues of police brutality and governance. The protests united young Nigerians across the nation and the diaspora, but just a few years later, it seems many have returned to a state of complacency. The Lekki Toll Gate incident, where peaceful protesters were shot, is a painful reminder of the cost of forgetting. 

By examining these events, we see a pattern: monumental occurrences are often reduced to mere footnotes in our history, overshadowed by the daily struggles of living in a complex society. This amnesia can lead to repeated mistakes, unresolved grievances, and a lack of accountability.

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Sociopolitical Implications:

The implications of forgetting extend beyond personal memory; they seep into our sociopolitical landscape. For example, the consistent cycle of electoral violence and electoral fraud in Nigeria can partly be attributed to our collective amnesia. Each election cycle, we witness the same patterns—promises made, violence enacted, and a populace that often forgets the lessons of previous elections. 

In recent elections, such as the 2023 general elections, many voters were disillusioned by the lack of transparency and accountability from their leaders. Yet, the memory of past electoral misconduct often does not influence voter behavior as it should. Instead, many are swayed by the immediate allure of political promises, forgetting the history of unfulfilled commitments.

Moreover, our forgetfulness also affects our national development. When we forget the economic mismanagement of the past, we risk repeating the errors that have led to our current economic challenges. The ongoing struggle with inflation, unemployment, and a declining naira should remind us of the importance of fiscal responsibility and governance that prioritizes the welfare of the citizenry.

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Cultural Reflections: 

Culturally, the phenomenon of forgetting raises questions about our identity as Nigerians. Our rich traditions, folklore, and oral histories are treasures that connect us to our past. However, in the hustle of modern life, many of these cultural narratives are being lost. 

Take, for instance, the stories of our heroes—both past and present. The likes of Nnamdi Azikiwe, Fela Kuti, and even contemporary figures like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have so much to teach us about resilience and social justice. Yet, as time goes on, fewer young Nigerians seem to engage with these narratives. The result is a disconnect from our heritage and a lack of understanding of the struggles that have paved the way for our current freedoms.

In the entertainment industry, we often see that trends come and go, but the deeper messages embedded in our art and music often get overshadowed. The legacy of activism through music is evident in the works of artists who speak out against corruption and injustice. However, as new genres and trends emerge, the powerful messages behind these songs can fade from public consciousness.

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The Way Forward: 

So, what can we do to combat this tendency to forget? 

First, we must prioritize education that emphasizes our history, culture, and the lessons learned from our past. Introducing curricula that focus on significant historical events, cultural heritage, and civic responsibility can empower the younger generations to engage with their identity thoughtfully.

Second, as a society, we need to foster open dialogue about our history and current issues. Platforms for discussion—be it through social media, community gatherings, or academic forums—can create an environment where people feel encouraged to share and reflect on their experiences and the lessons learned.

Finally, we should commemorate significant events with intentionality. National holidays, memorials, and public discussions around events like the #EndSARS protests can serve to keep the memory lives. 

Thanks. 

UNITY IN DIVERSITY By; Rev. Sr Chikaodiri Jacinta Aloh. SJGS

 INTRODUCTION 

"If we really listened to our enemies' suffering, we would no longer be enemies."~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow ~

1.0 DEFINITION

Unity in Diversity: (A Worthy Journey, Not Just a Desired Outcome). 

Unity in diversity is a very old concept dating back to ancient times in both Eastern and Western old-world cultures. It is an expression of harmony and unity between dissimilar individuals or groups. Many governments and institutions today still hold up this time-honoured concept as a worthy ideal. For example, in 1782 the US Congress adopted the motto E Pluribus Unum, meaning out of many, one. More recently, Unity in Diversity, became the official motto of the European Union in 2000.

In a world in which such terms can evoke diametrically opposed emotional reactions from different groups, it is worth taking a few moments to contemplate a modern-day meaning.

2.0 EXPLICATION OF TERMS

2.1 What is Unity?

First off, the word unity in this phrase does not mean uniformity, universal agreement, or even the mere tolerance of differences. It is not the blending of cultural, ethnic, or ideological differences into one. Instead, the word unity stands for oneness of purpose people pulling together in spite of differences for the greater good. 

Unity in this context hearkens back to the moral in Aesops fable, The Four Oxen and the Lion, which reads as follows: A lion used to prowl about a field in which four oxen used to dwell. Many a time he tried to attack them; but whenever he came near, they turned their tails to warn another, so that whichever way he approached them he was met by the horns of one of them. At last, however, they fell a-quarrelling [sic] among themselves, and each went off to pasture alone in a separate corner of the field. Then the Lion attacked them one by one and soon made an end of all four.

Nonetheless, Unity in the general sense means the state of being united, joined or combined into one. It is a sense of solidarity, community or togetherness among individuals or groups. Unity refers to the state of being united into a single entity where individuals or components work together in harmony

"United we stand, divided we fall"

2.2 What is Diversity?

Diversity in the context of Unity in Diversity does not mean fragmentation. Nor does it mean providing for dissimilar people to coexist in separate camps. Quite the opposite. It is the recognition that beauty and wisdom reveal themselves in diversity that honors the dignity of each unique contributor. Diversity is not confined to affirmative action for the sake of fairness and equality. It is not an end in itself but a means to a higher purpose. In a poignant essay, Kelsey Holmes of the Greenheart Club, writes Diversity is exactly that it is people of different races, religions, nationalities, and communities coming together for a singular purpose.

Holmes goes on to say that Learning about those who are different from you in turn helps you to better understand your own culture and perspective.

2.3 Diversity Makes us Smarter

In an article written for Scientific American, Katherine Phillips makes the case that Diversity Makes Us Smarter. In her premise, she states It seems obvious that a group of people with diverse individual expertise would be better than a homogeneous group at solving complex, non-routine problems. It is less obvious that social diversity should work in the same wayyet the science shows that it does. Phillips recognizes that diversity can be complicated when she observes, What good comes from diversity of race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation? Research has shown that social diversity in a group can cause discomfort, rougher interactions, a lack of trust, greater perceived interpersonal conflict, lower communication, less cohesion, more concern about disrespect, and other problems. So, what is the upside?

The upside can be found in the adage no pain, no gain. In order to change, grow, or innovate, we must first disrupt. We must question our assumptions and beliefs. Diversity gives us the tools to think outside the box.

2.4 Unity in Diversity

Unity in Diversity requires that we find ways to connect in our humanity even when we are divided in our beliefs, opinions, and self-interests. Our humanity is our God-likeness, something we all possess regardless of our differences. We are unique by design, not by an accident of fate.

Admittedly, it takes effort to honor the dignity and humanity of others, particularly when they are unlike us. We must be purposeful about it. We must seek the opportunities and take the time to understand and honor the story behind the uniqueness. This is the premise and process of Dignity Dialogues. Simple tolerance is only the beginning.

Yes, here are some additional aspects of unity in diversity:

Intersectionality: Recognizing how different identities (e.g., race, gender, sexuality) intersect and impact individual experiences.

Equity: Ensuring fair treatment and opportunities for all, addressing systemic inequalities.

Inclusive leadership: Leaders who foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating a sense of belonging.

Cultural intelligence: Understanding and appreciating diverse cultural norms and values.

Diversity of thought: Encouraging diverse perspectives and ideas to drive innovation.

Global citizenship: Recognizing shared humanity and responsibilities across cultures and borders.

Empathy and active listening: Essential skills for building bridges across differences.

Unity in diversity is a continuous journey, requiring effort and commitment to foster inclusive environments

3.0 CONCLUSION

In words attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson, life is a journey, not a destination. Likewise, Unity in Diversity is a journey, not just a desired outcome. It is in the journey that we discover beauty, creativity, and peace. Unity in Diversity brings peace even in our disagreements. It brings the power to solve the

 truly big problems of our time.

Nigeria, which way? By Sr. Maryrose Anurikristi Uche

 

INTRODUCTION

Looking at our current situations in Nigeria, we have no option than to ask this rhetorical question: Nigeria, which way? 

Nigeria as we know, is country blessed by God with rich human and natural resources, yet, one of the poorest countries in the world. What then is our problem since God has richly blessed us? Why are we still in this level of poverty despite all our resources? Are we going to survive this country when we can barely afford basics of life? Questions like these occupies the hearts of Nigerians seeking for answers. Let’s see if we can come up with sorting words that can help us face the current situations wisely and overcome them gradually. 

Foremost, let’s find out what the problems are, because discovering the problem is already a step to its solution. 

MAJOR PROBLEMS OF NIGERIA

Some key reasons why Nigeria, despite its resources has a high poverty rate include:

Poor Leadership: Weak governance, inefficiency, and lack of transparency in government institutions can hinder economic development and exacerbate poverty. Ineffective policies, lack of infrastructure, and inadequate social services can all contribute to the persistence of poverty. Election of unqualified leaders into public offices.

Corruption: Nigeria has a history of corruption at various levels of government and society. And this obstructs economic development and contributes to income inequality. 

High Cost of Living: The cost of everything in the market is nothing to write home about. At times, I wonder how parents with five children are surviving. 

Security Challenges: Nigeria has faced security challenges such as insurgency, ethnic and religious conflicts. These issues have disrupted economic activities, deterred investment, and created instability that affects the livelihoods of many Nigerians.

Population Growth: The high population growth rate can outstrip the capacity of the economy to create enough jobs and opportunities for everyone.

Over Dependence on Oil and Lack of Diversification: Nigeria's economy is heavily reliant on oil exports, which makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices. This dependence can hinder diversification into other sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services which are essential for sustainable and inclusive growth. 

Poor Educational system: Our educational institutions are so corrupt too that education today is in a sorry state. Most people cannot afford quality education and those who have the opportunity to study focus on making good grade and not to solve any problem. Hence, we have many professors yet, our problems sit with us still.  

EFFECTS OF ALL THESE PROBLEMS    

Brain drains: most Nigerians that ought to be instruments of developments are leaving the country in search for greener pastures.

Social Medias wahala: social media is not bad but most often, it is escalating the issue at hand thereby putting much pressure on people.

Poor Parenting 

Quick money-making mentality

Entitlement mentality

POSSIBLE SUGGESTIONS TO NIGERIA CURRENT SITUATION

My suggestion to the way out for the rhetorical question of Nigeria, which way include:

We need to trust and trusting God that everything will be alright someday. 

We need leaders who are humane, empathetic and ready to serve the poor masses (servant leaders), no matter the tribe or religion.

Investing and developing Nigeria from Nigerians in diaspora. 

We need to have positive attitude towards the situation and awakening the giant within us. Stop complaining and seek for solution 

We need skills acquisition schemes from secondary school

Getting two or more sources of income

Conclusion

This current Nigeria situation is a phase that will pass away like a wind someday. Therefore, do not over think yourself or over worry yourself. Try to be happy and be content with the little you have. No matter your situation, there is someone praying to be like you, hence, your situation isn’t the worst. Moreover, there is a future you have not seen yet. Please, don’t cut short your life because of the phase, it will pass. Remember, you are not in this alone, everyone is walking with their crosses, so, do not add to what people are going through. Be kind to people with your words and attitude please. This too shall pass!

My Culture, My Pride by Favour Tukyes Bitrus

What is Culture 

Culture refers to the art, costume ,habit beliefs and values of a particular group or society.

Is the way of life of a particular people or society

You can't talk about culture without 

Food 

Believe

Language

Values 

Costoms 

Art and costume 

Culture plays a vital roles in our life, It affects our day to day activities, culture defines,distinguish,and it guild and bound set of people, culture influence

 our choice

How we see things

How we react to things

 How we behave

 How we dress

How we talk

Dress and adornment 

Ritual (marriage right) 

 culture is basically a lifestyle ,so It is safe to say culture is identity 

2 Pride

We have the healthy and unhealthy pride 

Healthy pride : is a  feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one's achievement.

Conscious of one's dignity

Knowing one's self worth

Unhealthy pride :the quality of being proud inordinate (unreasonable) when someone feels there's no one above him/her or he or she can never ne wrong

3 my culture my pride (my identity my pride )

"My culture my pride "is a powerful expression of the importance of one's culture and the sense of pride and identity that comes with it,it acknowledges the importance of one's cultural background, traditions and values that shape who we are and where we come from,

Is the declaration of the importance of  preserving and sharing our culture and tradition with others 

 A lot of people tend to be ashamed of their culture because of people's perspectives about their culture, some go as far as denying their culture, people are trying so hard to sound and act like the white, making people with accent feel bad,do you know why people are trying so hard to be like the white?. Is because the white are proud of their culture, people with positive pride motivate and inspire others to join them or be like them, when you're proud of your culture you Make people love your culture, you Make people want to know more about your culture,

4 Why you should be proud of your culture

Cause is your identity

For promotion 

Cause culture is beautiful and unique

Cause it give good impression about your culture

5  Why is important to promote culture

For preservation

For education

For unity

For legacy

For identity and belonging

4 How to promote culture

Educate yourself

Shate traditions

Talk about it

Social media

Community engagement

Attend cultural events 

Conclusion:  you cannot be proud of  something you don't love, first you have to accept who you are (culture) love it before you can promote it, speak your tribe when ever you have the chance to ,teach your children the importance of culture, your accent will not stop you from achieving anything, have healthy pride ,accept your culture,love your culture,and promote your culture, and most importantly respect other people culture, let's stop making people with accent feel bad .

CULTURE MUST NOT DIE

IMPACT OF EDUCATION IN SOCIETAL TRANSFORMATION by Abi Francis, SSP

INTRODUCTION

We are very familiar with the popular mandate “School na scam” In other words, education has no value or to put it education has no impact on societal development. But I ask is school really a scam? Is education of no value? Or will you also agree that education does not affect societal development?

According to Nelson Mandela, Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world, countries of the world are categorized into 3 namely First world countries, second world countries and third-world countries, third-world countries other words known as developing countries, or under-developed countries, the first and second world countries one of the major attributes we see is education, education plays a tremendous role in the development of any country. On the other hand, the third-world countries is mostly characterized by high level of illiteracy, and shockingly most countries in Africa, blessed with numerous natural and human resources, falls under this category.

As a country, we have been hit by a lot of set back and challenges since the very birth of the country, the reason being that they have been a huge failure in trying to invest in education, provide good and sustainable jobs for graduates, lack of job for educated youth is one of the factors that is discouraging youth from being educated or going to school. I once entered a keke napep, the driver of the tricycle was free with me and was sharing his ordeal with me, how he is a university graduate but no job, and in other to make ends meet he has to delve into this venture. We have in one way or the other come across people who have shared similar experiences. And sometimes we begin to ask ourselves if education is impactful.

IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION IN SOCIETAL DEVELOPMENT

We shall be looking at ways in which education is important to societal development.

• Education equips people with the necessary knowledge, to contribute to the development of society, because through education individuals get the right qualifications to make good decisions that will aid the development of society and contribute to the economic development of the country.

• Education can also help improve the economy and enhance human capital and workforce, individuals who are well educated will be innovative, coming up with new ideas technological know-how, and skills for economic development. Also, the training of individuals in vocational training schools will help increase the workforce of the country.

• Education can also bring about unity, with a high level of literacy there won’t be favoritism, because jobs will not be given based on kinsmen but on educational qualification, and with this citizens gets to work hand in hand to improve economic development of the country. It can also promote tolerance among diverse ethnic groups bringing about unity among members.

• With a high level of education citizens will be well informed about their leaders and make the right choices during elections and not vote blindly, one of the reasons we still make the wrong choice of leadership is because the majority of the populace are atill living in stone age, high level of illiteracy and so they can easily be swayed by little token and so on.

CHALLENGES A COUNTRY FACES FOR NOT INVESTING IN EDUCATION

• The lack of educational qualification will also bring about a lack of needed knowledge and skills to impact society positively.

• With low level of education, that will hinder the economy from growing because those put in charge will not have the necessary qualifications to improve the economy just like what we now suffer in the country.

• With a high level of illiteracy, it will become so easy for our so-called leaders to turn us against each other bridging the gap of unity and bringing about diversity, individuals will not be able to tolerate each other, bringing about hatred and enmity among individuals.

•   Without education, individuals find it challenging to secure well-paying jobs. This leads to high unemployment and underemployment rates, where people work in jobs that do not fully utilize their skills or pay living wages, leading to a rise in poverty level.

•   Education, particularly for women, is closely linked to better health outcomes. Educated individuals are more likely to make informed health choices and access healthcare services. Lack of education can lead to higher rates of infant mortality, malnutrition, and preventable diseases.

•  Countries that do not invest in education may find themselves unable to keep pace with global advancements, just like the problem we now face in our country, we are more of consuming country rather than producing.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, education is a transformative force that drives economic development, promotes social equity, and fosters cultural development. It empowers individuals to improve their socio-economic status, contributes to national development, and promotes a more inclusive and cohesive society. By investing in education, societies can unlock the potential of their citizens, reduce inequalities, and build a foundation for sustainable development and social progress. The impact of education on societal transformation is important and making it one of the most crucial investments for any nation.

FAKE NEWS IN NIGERIA BY OKWARA, CASMIR UGOCHUKWU

 Introduction  

The emergency of the new media technologies which includes the different kinds of social media has brought about a significant change in our society today, where everyone can easily exchange their ideas, share their feelings and opinions without necessarily been together physically. These new media has helped in the dissemination of information in a higher speed rate order than the previously exiting mediums ( newspapers, radio and television). 

The spread of misinformation in these digitalized era has been a rampant issues overall the world and in Nigeria particularly. The emergency of these new media has paved way for easier spread or speculation of fake news in Nigeria which has a significant impact in shaping the opinions of the public and influencing decisions including political decisions. 

Nigeria, as a nation, has been making concerted efforts towards self-governance since the end of the colonial era. Like a toddler learning to walk, falls and rises, Nigeria has been falling and raising in this long walk. (Evaristus, 2021). This act of falling and rising has touched every aspect of it's governance including the publication of news. 

With the diversities in Nigeria and the numerous numbers of people in Nigeria, the proliferation of fake news in Nigeria has become more worrisome and threatening to the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy. Many fabricated information has been published about the government, institutions, organizations, churches and individuals and in some cases infringing the right of the citizens of Nigeria. Therefore in this context, we will be examining the impact of fake news in Nigeria and possible ways to combat this growing concern. 

Keywords: News, Fake news, media, new media and Nigeria 

News

News can be seen as the factual account of an event. It can come in two ways; hard news and soft news. Hard news which implies, the factual account of event. It could is ongoing or as it is happening. It is just like breaking news. While soft news can be seen as feature stories. Feature stories here does not mean it is been fabricated but it lacks that element of just happening or immediacy. It can come up as a story to illustrate an event and why the event took place. 

Asemah (2011) defines news as “the account of a timely and unusual event in the society” (p.135). This definition seems limiting because as observed by Fry (2017) the current digital environment as characterized by proliferating social media has changed the traditional notion of news as an account of an unusual event. McQuail (2011) sees news as “the main form in which current information about public events are carried by media of all kinds” (p.564). Although, it is obvious through the definitions given here that one of the distinctive features of news is currency, the latter definition captures the fact that news is information conveyed on different kinds of media. Suffice to say then that news is information about events that are currently happening or that have happened recently. It is any information that helps the comprehension of important happenings in society. Fry (2017) suggests that the traditional notion of news is doomed going by the impositions of new media technologies on the news processes, for example the collapse of gatekeepers, the blurring lines of distinction between news, advertisement and entertainment. 

The lack of gate keeping in the current news processes is what brings about fake news in Nigeria because there is no checkmentation of the contents being published especially in online or new media or social media platform. Keep in mind that the effectiveness of these acts of gate keeping is only effective in traditional media such as newspaper, radio and television. 

Fake news 

Fake news is one of the trending words not only in the field of journalism/communication, but across other professions. Nigeria, like every other countries of the world is suffering from the effects of fake news. Fake news does not only come in words alone but sometimes are accompanied by sounds, videos, graphics and pictures to make it more real and for people to believe in. 

The origin of fake can traced to as far back as the beginning of industrial. Standage (2017) believes that “fake news has been known since the earliest days of printing. In the 16th and 17th centuries, printers would crank out pamphlets, or news books, offering detailed accounts of monstrous beasts or unusual occurrences” 

Fake news is not a new phenomenon. It has been in existence for a very long time.  Notwithstanding, it has become more intense in recent times as a result of widespread internet use and low-cost access to social media channels, competitive politics and intensifying poverty, and ethno-religious rivalry.

Fake news is the deliberate fabrication of information to deceive people with the aim of misleading others into believing falsehood and doubting confirmable actualities (White 2017). According to McGonagle (2017), fake news is information that has been deliberately fabricated and disseminated with the intention to deceive and mislead others into believing falsehoods or doubting verifiable facts. 

In Nigeria, fake news be it intentionally or unintentionally sent out to the people is never a good news. For instance, in November 1989, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) announced the death of the first Governor General and President of Nigeria, Dr Nnamdi Azikwe. By the next morning, the news was on the front pages of most of the country’s newspapers. It took two days before Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe cleared the air about the state of his health and informed the world that he was still alive and the false claim was relatively contained. Imagine waking up one morning and opening your WhatsApp handle and seeing a message that contains free 200 million free grant by the government and you keep sharing. The new media has been the major agents fueling the spread of fake news in Nigeria today due to it's rampent use in recent days as everyone is now a journalist. 

 The new media. 

The new media has a significant impact on our lives together as one can hardly do without them. It has transformed various aspects of our lives including in commerce, transport, medical centers, education and entertainment. 

Aduloju (2017) defines new media as "any form of media that came out towards the end of the 20th century or in 21st century. Specially, new media can be regarded as a 21st century catchall term used to describe all that is not connected to the internet and the interaction aimd technology, image, and sound" (P.100). According to her most of the technologies portrayed as new media are digital, frequently possessing features of being controlled, intense compactable, interactive and networkable. (Manovich, 2003 and Konieezy, 2009, as cited in Aduloju, 2017). 

Itsueli (2017) also defines new media as "an interactive, digital and time space independent communication medium that enables any kind of content sharing on cyberspace" (p.152). Linking this to the contest of this work, the digital and time space features of these new media has made it possible for one to share information at any time and any where. 

On his own, Egere (2019) sees the new media as an unending conversation on the Internet, with new conversations begining every time. This shows or indicates why the new media should not be underrated but paid more attention to. Therefore, in this contest, there is a great need to focus more on the new media because the skillful application and knowledge about the media and technological messages is very vital to enable individuals, government, organizations or churchs  know how to select relevant information in order not to mislead people.. 

These new media is mostly found among the younger people of today who uses it to pass across I formation. Just as Ojemen (2019) notes that the acquisition and use of new media are too readily found among younger generation, who easily uses it as a means of reaching out to, to form new friends and search for new ideals. 

Nigeria 

Nigeria, officially known as the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa and has been a home to many indigenous people since their amalgamation in 1914 by the British colonial masters. Although they become an independent country in 1960 and fully in 1963. Nigeria is a multinational state that has over 250 ethnic groups with the major ethnic groups been igbo, hause and yourba. Nigeria has been experiencing a whole lots of ups and downs, just as Evaristus (2021) sees Nigeria as a to toddler learning to walk, falls and rises. He further stated that " Nigeria has been falling and raising in this long walk towards self-governance as a sovereign nation. But oftentimes, she falls and remains fallen instead of raising" (p.1). 

Nigeria practices democracy has a form of government. The term democracy is taken from two Greek origins: demos which means ordinary people; and kratos which means rule; thus, when used together demos-kratos means "the rule of the common people" (Evaristus,2021). 

 In order words, democracy implies the government of the people, by the people and for the people. But we are truly practicing democracy? Nigeria practice of democracy has put forth strength to the media carry out their job of covering and checkmating the different arms of government. And the media also to stand alone with out been influenced. These act of the media to serve as a watchdog to the government and a mediator between the government and the people has made it possible for them to be seen and describe as tge fourth estate of the realm.

  The media been the agents of news some times are been influenced in their job of giving out accurate information to the public making the news to be fake but appearing real.

Causes of fake News in Nigeria 

Reasons attributed for the proliferation of fake news in Nigeria are numerous but few will be mentioned and briefly discussed here 

Information overload: information overload is of the cause of fake news in Nigeria today. For instance, when you wake up in the morning, open all your social media handle, you will get over a thousands of messages to read and reply to. News is as well published on a daily basis in the major news mediums such as the newspaper, radio and television. All these leave one in a state of confusion where he or she finds it difficult to know and differentiate between fake news and real news.  This is why Rose & Kiss (2007) observes the blurring of news, entertainment and politics and submits that “the problem is not that we need greater access to information but arguably that we have access to much information” (p.605). This information overload is basically found more on the social media.

Non professional service: most of the fake news been published as been published by those who are not professional journalist, example the citizen journalists. They don't know the ethics of news publication, the just capture the moment and send out to the public without verification or consultation. Their major aim is to be the first to publish the most or recently happening. And this is a very big problem that the social media and other new media has made possible because with ones phone or gadget and Internet connection, you can spread the message across the country. This act has been putting Nigeria citizens in pains, distress and in an uncomfortable situation. For example, imagine been at the market and you open your social media just to see a blog or website post on the demise of your loved ones just like that. How would you feel?. Also, Riley (2017), has observed this in her work, where she stated that "the complacency of genuine communication professionals has led to the proliferation of “lies and garbage” (p.16). 

Low level of media trust: Nigeria citizens have a very low trust in the publications of the major news media such as newspapers, radio and television. They hardly believe in what these mediums publish rather they hope on getting legit information from the bloggers who do not know the ethics of news. 

Government interference/Economy: economy is one of the greatest factors the brings about fake news publication. The governments overseeing and controlling the media in Nigeria is a very big problem in publishing the factual account of an event. It is popularly said that who pays the piper detects the tune. Therefore the government funding these media house makes impossible for these media houses to publish ill facts about the government because they depend on the government for survival of their stations. 

Non gate keeping policy: this is more on the aspect of social media and other websites. There is no process of checkmentation of the contents they post and no rules or guidelines are given to them and this has been a problem and lead to the proliferation of fake news in Nigeria. 

Keep in mind that the advent digitalization has both positive and negative impact on news publication on Nigeria system. 

Conclusion 

The menace of fake news is contributing to the escalation of the security woes to our beloved country Nigeria. Fake news has lead to various problems in Nigeria today such as hatred, ethno-religious conflicts, political violence, leadership mistrust, economic instability, inter-tribal anxiety, character assassination and many other cases which has been a threat to the development of Nigeria.

The spread of fake news in Nigeria which was given impetus by the emergency and dominance of internet and social media has indeed changed the mindset of many Nigerians.  But it's negative implications can be controlled and manage to a certain point or level. 

Recommendations

Fake news in Nigeria has been a long worrisome discussion among the citizens of Nigeria. To eliminate or eradicate fake news totally will be very difficult if at all it would be possible at all. But it can be reduced and managed to some extent. Therefore I recommend the following; 

1. People should be educated by the government and as well non governmental organizations through various medium on media literacy in order to help them differentiate between fake news and real news. The knowledge of media will enable them to filters what the take in as news and as well give out as news because as a media literate you have to be a prosumer. This implies that you should have the ability to create messages and read or recieve  messages not only passive or been at the receiving end, you have to proactive. . 

2. The government should find a possible means to ensure that gatekeeping process or possible ways of monitoring and regulating the contents that are been published in different social media platforms. 

3. Press freedom should be encourage. This will enable the media houses to act on their own and control their affairs without governmental or external force. This will help in reducing rate of fake news in Nigeria.

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