Nigeria's Media Industry Faces Labor Crisis, Warns WIJAFRICA

A report titled "Labour Abuse: Nigerian Journalists Struggle to Survive," released by WIJAFRICA, highlights a severe welfare crisis in Nigeria's media industry, particularly impacting women journalists. Conducted from January to April 2026, the study involved interviews with 170 journalists across 50 media organizations in 19 states.

It found systemic issues such as delayed salaries, non-payment of wages, low remuneration, and lack of pension contributions. Women journalists face significant challenges, including financial distress, burnout, workplace discrimination, and sexual harassment.

Yomi Owop, the coordinator of WIJAFRICA, noted that these issues reflect deeper structural problems within the industry. The report calls for stronger enforcement of labor laws, improved pension compliance, and enhanced welfare protections for journalists.

It emphasizes the need for coordinated action across the media sector to address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of the media industry in Nigeria.