ABSTRACT

The twenty-first century has seen an exponential pace of change in technology. Technological and scientific innovations, along with societal shifts, are radically changing the way businesses and society function. The newspaper industry is no exception, as the traditional method of generating, producing and distributing news is giving way to digital approaches. For the already challenged indigenous language press, the rapidly encroaching digital transformation holds both opportunities and potential threats. This chapter examines the implications of the shift to digital media for the future of indigenous language newspapers in Nigeria and identifies opportunities for sustaining them. We argue that indigenous language newspapers in Nigeria need to not only adapt to the digital revolution but also explore a model that combines a futuristic outlook with a practical approach if they are to thrive in the rapidly changing and technology-driven world. The process of repositioning or reinventing must start with a critical appraisal or reimagining of the current modus operandi and a rethinking of the overarching purpose of indigenous language newspapers.