Existence of Local Newspapers in Rivers and Bayelsa States (1996-2016)

Abstract

Considering the need to historically document local newspapers, this study examined the existence and lifespan of local newspapers in Rivers and Bayelsa States between 1996 and 2016. The circulation spiral theory provided the theoretical framework for the study. Three research questions were formulated to guide the study. The population of the study was drawn from 214 production crew members of local newspapers in Rivers and Bayelsa States. The researchers used the census technique to study the entire population. Data for the study were generated using documents and the questionnaire. The data obtained from questionnaire were analysed using simple percentages. The study found out that 82 local newspapers existed in the two states within the period of study. The local newspapers with the longest lifespan published for upward of eleven to fifteen years, while the ones with the shortest lifespan existed less than five years. The study also found out that the lifespan of local newspapers in Bayelsa State was longer than the ones in Rivers. The study recommended that publishers and prospective local newspaper proprietors should strive towards quality production in content and design to improve circulation. They should put in place requisite requirements for the publication of newspapers to remain afloat.

Keywords: Lifespan, local newspapers, survival, extinction

DOI: 10.7176/NMMC/84-05

Publication date:October 31^st 2019