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The Nigerian media space is getting tougher for publishers and practitioners, however, in this interview, Abidemi Adebamiwa, the Managing Editor of Newspot Nigeria, offers advice on how not to only survive but thrive in the industry. He speaks with Ikechi Nzeako. Excerpts:
What does Newspot Nigeria do?
Newspot Nigeria is a digital media platform focused on news reporting, governance, public affairs, business, and human-interest stories.
The platform goes beyond headlines to explain context, interrogate power, and show how policy decisions affect every day Nigerians. Our guiding principle is public interest journalism grounded in accuracy and clarity.
Who are your primary readers?
Our primary readers include professionals, policymakers, students, civil society actors, entrepreneurs, and politically conscious Nigerians, both within the country and in the diaspora.
They are readers who value credible reporting and thoughtful analysis over sensational content.
What motivated the establishment of the platform?
Newspot Nigeria was established to fill a critical gap in Nigeria’s media space, the need for a credible, independent platform committed to accountability, ethical journalism, and public enlightenment.
The aim was to create a trusted space where facts, context, and integrity shape national conversations.
When did it start?
Newspot Nigeria was founded in 2014 by Sir Folu Olamiti, former Nigerian Tribune’s Executive Director of Publications.
How has the platform fared since inception?
Since its founding, Newspot Nigeria has recorded steady growth in readership, relevance, and credibility. The platform’s reports and commentaries are widely read, shared, and cited, contributing meaningfully to public discourse and policy conversations.
What have been the major challenges?
The major challenges have included financial sustainability, operating in a difficult economic climate, political pressure, the spread of misinformation, and the rising cost of maintaining professional journalism in a highly competitive digital environment.
What strategies were deployed to overcome these challenges?
We focused on editorial credibility, operational efficiency, and digital innovation. A key strategy was reaching out more deliberately to trusted organizations, institutions, and credible individuals for advertising partnerships. With the proliferation of digital platforms, credibility has become essential for gaining audience trust and advertiser confidence.
By maintaining strong editorial standards and aligning with reputable partners, we positioned Newspot Nigeria as a trusted environment for responsible ad placements.
What is your assessment of the media in Nigeria?
Nigeria’s media remains resilient and influential, but it operates under increasing strain. While many journalists continue to show courage and professionalism, the industry faces underfunding, ownership pressures, and growing political and commercial interference.
What can be done to improve the welfare of journalists and publishers?
Improvement requires better remuneration, enforceable labor protections, continuous professional training, access to sustainable funding, and a fairer advertising ecosystem. Reducing dependence on political patronage is also essential for editorial independence.
How would you describe press freedom in Nigeria?
Press freedom in Nigeria is guaranteed by law ,but constrained in practice. Journalists often face intimidation, legal harassment, and economic pressure, particularly when reporting on powerful interests.
What incentives should be given to publishers?
Publishers should benefit from tax reliefs, fair government advertising policies, access to public information, legal protections, and targeted grants for investigative journalism. Supporting publishers is not charity, it is an investment in democratic accountability and informed citizenship.
Read the full article here
