The early history of Nigerian newspapers and their role in the development of journalism provide a
fascinating lens through which to examine the evolution of media in Nigeria. From their inception in the
mid-19th century, Nigerian newspapers have transitioned from tools of missionary outreach and
colonial administration to powerful instruments of nationalist agitation and, later, to a complex mix of
commercial enterprises and digital platforms in the postmodern era. Below, I explore this history and
compare the roles newspapers played in early journalism with the realities of journalism today.
Early History of Nigerian Newspapers
The story of Nigerian newspapers begins in 1859 with the establishment of Iwe Irohin fun Awon Ara
Egba ati Yoruba ("Newspaper for the Egba and Yoruba People") by Reverend Henry Townsend, an
Anglican missionary, in Abeokuta. Published in Yoruba with an English supplement introduced in 1860,
this newspaper aimed to spread Christian teachings and provide literacy education to the local
population. It marked the birth of print journalism in Nigeria, though its focus was primarily religious and
educational rather than journalistic in the modern sense.
Following Iwe Irohin, other early newspapers emerged, often tied to colonial interests or missionary
activities. For instance, The Anglo-African (1863–1865), founded by Robert Campbell, catered to an
educated elite and covered local and international news. By the 1880s, English-language newspapers
like The Lagos Times and Gold Coast Colony Advertiser (1880–1883) began to appear, serving British
colonial officials and expatriates. These early publications laid the groundwork for a press culture, but
their readership was limited to a small, literate minority.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of a nationalist press, driven by educated Nigerians
who used newspapers to challenge colonial rule. Publications like The Weekly Record (1891–1930),
edited by John Payne Jackson and later Thomas Horatio Jackson, criticized colonial policies and
advocated for African rights. Similarly, The Nigerian Pioneer (1914), founded by Kitoye Ajasa, and The
West African Pilot (1937), established by Nnamdi Azikiwe, became platforms for political activism. These
newspapers played a pivotal role in mobilizing public opinion and fostering a sense of national identity
during the struggle for independence, achieved in 1960.
Role in Early Development of Journalism
In their formative years, Nigerian newspapers served distinct roles that shaped the trajectory of
journalism:
Education and Literacy Promotion: Early newspapers like Iwe Irohin were tools for educating the
populace, introducing Western ideas, and promoting literacy among indigenous communities.
Missionaries used them to reach converts and train a readership capable of engaging with print media.
Colonial Communication: Newspapers such as The Lagos Times facilitated communication between the
colonial administration and the expatriate community, reinforcing British authority and interests. They
were less about investigative journalism and more about disseminating official narratives.
Nationalist Advocacy: By the early 20th century, newspapers became instruments of resistance. Editors
like Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo (founder of Nigerian Tribune in 1949) used their platforms to
critique colonial oppression, rally support for independence, and foster political consciousness. This
adversarial role established journalism as a "watchdog" of power in Nigeria.
Community Building: These newspapers, often published in local languages or English, bridged ethnic
divides and connected disparate groups under a shared goal of self-governance. They were vital in
creating a collective Nigerian identity.
Journalism during this period was rudimentary, with limited technology (hand-operated presses) and
small circulations. Yet, it was highly influential among the elite and emerging middle class, setting the
stage for a vibrant press culture.
Realities of Journalism in the Postmodern Era
Today, Nigerian journalism operates in a vastly different context, shaped by technological
advancements, economic pressures, and sociopolitical changes. The postmodern era, roughly from the
late 20th century onward, has seen the rise of digital media, commercialization, and new challenges to
press freedom.
Digital Transformation: The advent of the internet has revolutionized journalism. Online newspapers like
Premium Times, Sahara Reporters, and The Cable have emerged, offering real-time reporting and
bypassing traditional gatekeepers. Social media platforms like Twitter (now X) and Facebook amplify
news dissemination, engaging a broader audience instantly.
Commercialization: Unlike the ideologically driven early press, many modern Nigerian newspapers—
such as The Punch, Vanguard, and The Guardian—prioritize profit. Advertising revenue and "brown
envelope" journalism (cash payments for favorable coverage) have compromised editorial
independence, shifting focus from public service to commercial interests.
Fragmentation and Polarization: The proliferation of media outlets has led to a fragmented landscape.
While early newspapers unified readers around nationalism, today’s press often reflects ethnic, political,
and religious divides. Outlets like Daily Trust (Northern-focused) and The Nation (aligned with certain
political interests) cater to specific audiences, sometimes amplifying bias.
Press Freedom Challenges: Military rule (1966–1999) and ongoing government pressures have tested
journalism’s watchdog role. While the Freedom of Information Act (2011) aimed to enhance
transparency, censorship, harassment, and economic instability continue to hinder investigative
reporting.
Citizen Journalism: The rise of social media has democratized news production. Ordinary Nigerians now
break stories, as seen during the 2011 elections and the #EndSARS protests in 2020, challenging
traditional media’s monopoly on information.
Comparison and Contrast
Purpose: Early newspapers were mission-driven—spreading religion, supporting colonial rule, or
advocating independence. Postmodern journalism blends public service with commercial goals, often
diluting its activist roots.
Audience Reach: The early press targeted a small, literate elite, while today’s media reach millions via
digital platforms, transcending literacy barriers with multimedia content.
Technology: Hand-pressed papers with weekly or monthly runs contrast sharply with today’s instant
digital publishing and 24/7 news cycles.
Independence: Early nationalist papers were fiercely independent, funded by political leaders or
subscriptions. Modern outlets often depend on corporate or political patronage, compromising
autonomy.
Role in Society: The early press shaped national identity and drove political change. Today, journalism
informs, entertains, and polarizes, with its influence diluted by misinformation and competing voices.
Challenges: Early journalists faced colonial censorship and limited resources. Postmodern journalists
grapple with economic pressures, fake news, and regulatory threats like the proposed Social Media Bill.
Conclusion
The early history of Nigerian newspapers reveals a press that evolved from a missionary tool to a
nationalist force, laying the foundation for journalism as a societal pillar. In contrast, the postmodern
era reflects a dynamic but fragmented media landscape, where technological innovation and
commercial pressures redefine journalism’s role. While the early press unified Nigerians around a
common cause, today’s journalism navigates a complex balance between informing the public, serving
vested interests, and adapting to a digital age—illustrating both progress and new dilemmas in its
development.
