About the Study
In recent years, the global conversation on gender equality has gained momentum, bringing much-needed attention to the widespread issue of violence against women and girls (VAWG) across various sectors—including the media industry. Despite progress in policy and advocacy, women in Nigeria’s media sector continue to face significant challenges both online and offline. The combination of gender discrimination and professional risks creates a hostile environment where female journalists and media professionals remain particularly vulnerable. Addressing VAWG within Nigeria’s media landscape is not just a necessity—it is crucial to ensuring a safer, more inclusive industry that upholds ethical journalism and shapes societal norms.
The Nigerian media industry is undergoing rapid digital transformation, expanding its reach and influence through various platforms. However, this evolution also exposes women to increased harassment, abuse, and violence—particularly in online spaces. The growing prevalence of online harassment targeting female journalists, coupled with inadequate institutional support, weak legal protections, and insufficient safety protocols, has intensified the vulnerabilities of women in media. Instead of serving as a catalyst for social change, the media sector often reflects and reinforces broader societal issues, including gender-based violence and discrimination.
This report provides an in-depth analysis of VAWG within Nigeria’s media sector, highlighting the gaps in policy awareness, implementation, and enforcement. Drawing from extensive survey data and key informant interviews with media professionals nationwide, the report uncovers the reality that while policy frameworks exist to protect women in media, they are often poorly implemented and inconsistently enforced. Many female journalists report a lack of institutional support when facing online threats, while structural weaknesses—including the absence of gender-sensitive policies and comprehensive safety protocols—further exacerbate the issue.
Drawing from extensive survey data and key informant interviews with media professionals across the country, the study highlights:
- The gaps in awareness, implementation, and enforcement of policies designed to combat VAWG in media.
- The widespread issue of online harassment against female journalists, with many reporting inadequate institutional responses to their safety concerns.
- The lack of gender-sensitive policies and comprehensive safety protocols within media organisations, further exacerbating the risks women face in their professional environments.
The research underscores the urgent need for stronger policy enforcement, institutional reforms, and a collective industry-wide commitment to tackling gender-based violence in the media. To drive these necessary changes, the study has produced two policy briefs that offer actionable recommendations for:
✅ Journalists – equipping them with tools to navigate and report on VAWG safely.
✅ Government agencies – guiding the development and enforcement of protective regulations.
✅ Media institutions – supporting the adoption of gender-sensitive policies and safety measures.
✅ The media industry at large – fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for female media professionals.
By shedding light on these pressing challenges, this report aims to drive urgent action toward creating a safer, more equitable media industry in Nigeria—one that truly upholds the principles of freedom, fairness, and gender inclusivity.
