In Nigeria’s fast-paced and often chaotic media landscape, every journalist learns early on that formal training only scratches the surface. Beyond mastering the art of writing, interviewing, or fact-checking, there exists a set of informal rules—unwritten but universally understood by those in the field. These rules form a survival guide for navigating the complexities of journalism in a country where stories are as diverse as its people.
This article explores these unspoken codes, offering insight into what it truly means to thrive as a journalist in Nigeria.
Rule 1: Relationships are Everything
In the Nigerian media industry, who you know often determines how far you’ll go. Building and maintaining relationships with sources, editors, and colleagues is a cornerstone of success. A well-placed source can be the difference between breaking a story and watching a competitor scoop you.
Journalists are often advised to cultivate friendships across various sectors—politics, business, entertainment, and even law enforcement. These connections can open doors, provide leads, or offer protection in dicey situations.
As one veteran reporter put it, “Your reputation is your calling card, but your network is your safety net.”
Rule 2: Always Read the Room
Journalists quickly learn the art of “reading the room,” especially during press briefings and events. In Nigeria, where emotions can run high and conversations can easily turn political, understanding the dynamics of the room is crucial.
A reporter covering a press conference must gauge the mood of the organizers and attendees before asking sensitive questions. Misjudging the tone can lead to backlash, exclusion from future events, or, worse, being escorted out.
Subtle cues, such as the body language of a spokesperson or the choice of words in an opening remark, can hint at what topics are off-limits. Savvy journalists use this skill to toe the line without compromising their integrity.
Rule 3: Pack a Survival Kit
In Nigeria, being a journalist often means being prepared for the unexpected. This is not a metaphorical preparedness; it’s literal. Many journalists carry a “survival kit” when heading into the field.
This kit typically includes:
- A power bank (because there’s no guarantee of electricity).
- Snacks and water (you never know how long an assignment will last).
- A notepad and pen (because technology can fail).
- Cash in small denominations (POS systems and ATMs can be unreliable).
Some even keep a change of clothes handy, especially when covering protests or flood-prone areas during the rainy season. The idea is simple: be ready for anything.
Rule 4: Master the Art of Hustling
The Nigerian media scene is not known for its generous paychecks. Many journalists juggle multiple jobs or freelance gigs to make ends meet. This hustle mentality has led to the coining of terms like “brown envelope journalism,” a controversial practice where reporters accept stipends or gifts from sources or event organizers.
While the ethics of this practice remain hotly debated, the reality is that economic pressures push many into difficult positions. Those who choose to stay entirely above board often rely on personal savings, side businesses, or support from family to sustain their careers.
Rule 5: Protect Yourself First
Safety is a major concern for journalists in Nigeria, particularly those covering sensitive topics like corruption, terrorism, or human rights abuses. Reporters learn to prioritize their safety by blending into crowds, using pseudonyms for bylines, and avoiding locations where their presence might provoke hostility.
Digital safety is another growing concern. Journalists encrypt sensitive communications and avoid sharing personal details on public platforms. The motto is clear: no story is worth risking your life.
Rule 6: Understand the Power of the Gatekeepers
Editors and producers hold significant influence in the Nigerian media landscape. They decide which stories get published or aired and how they are presented. A good relationship with your editor can mean the difference between your pitch being approved or ignored.
However, this dynamic also comes with its challenges. Editors are under pressure from advertisers, government agencies, and media owners, which sometimes leads to editorial bias. Journalists often have to navigate these waters carefully, balancing their commitment to the truth with the realities of newsroom politics.
Rule 7: Be Ready to Pivot
The news cycle in Nigeria is unpredictable. A peaceful protest can escalate into a nationwide shutdown, or a routine court case can suddenly become a major corruption scandal. Journalists are always on their toes, ready to pivot from one assignment to another at a moment’s notice.
Adaptability is key. Experienced reporters advise newcomers to always have a Plan B, whether it’s alternative transportation routes or backup story ideas. Flexibility can save the day when breaking news interrupts pre-planned coverage.
Rule 8: Stay Ahead of the Story
In Nigeria, where rumors spread faster than verified news, journalists must stay ahead of the story. Fact-checking is not just a professional requirement; it’s a survival skill. Publishing inaccurate information can damage a journalist’s credibility beyond repair.
Social media has amplified this challenge. Reporters must balance the pressure to post breaking news quickly with the need to ensure accuracy. Many rely on trusted sources, cross-referencing multiple accounts before hitting “publish.”
Rule 9: Find Humor in the Chaos
The Nigerian journalist’s life is not for the faint-hearted, but humor often serves as a coping mechanism. Whether it’s sharing jokes about missed deadlines or laughing at the absurdity of certain assignments, finding humor in the chaos keeps spirits high.
One reporter recounted being sent to cover a wedding only to discover that it was a funeral. Instead of panicking, they adapted their angle and turned the mix-up into a heartwarming human-interest piece.
Rule 10: Celebrate the Wins
In an industry fraught with challenges, every small victory matters. Whether it’s getting a quote from a hard-to-reach source, having a story go viral, or receiving positive feedback from readers, journalists learn to celebrate their wins.
These moments serve as reminders of why they entered the profession in the first place—to tell stories that matter, hold power to account, and give a voice to the voiceless.
The unwritten rules of Nigeria’s media scene reveal a profession that is as dynamic as it is demanding. While formal education lays the foundation, it is these informal codes of conduct that truly shape a journalist’s journey.
From cultivating relationships to staying adaptable and finding humor in the chaos, Nigerian journalists embody resilience, resourcefulness, and an unyielding commitment to their craft. For aspiring reporters, understanding these unwritten rules is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity.
