Comparative Study of Newspaper Framing on Covid-19 Vaccination Drive in Nigeria

Abstract

This study attempts a comparative analysis of newspaper framing on Covid-19vaccination drive in Nigeria. The study combined framing theory and agenda setting theory of the mass media as theoretical framework. Data was generated through content analysis of three widely read Nigerian newspapers that reportedCovid-19 vaccines more compared to others-The Guardian, Daily Trust and The Nation. Seventy-three (73) stories were coded out of 228 editions of the newspapers. The data were analyzed using simple frequency and percentage tables in via the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)software. Findings indicate that The Guardian had the highest stories on Covid- 19 vaccines reported followed by The Nation, while Daily Trust had the least stories reported, but these stories were buried on the inside pages of the newspapers. On the frequency of stories reported, The Guardian reported more stories on Covid-19 vaccination, followed by the Nation, while Daily Trust had the least coverage. The newspapers' suggestions were not effective in encouraging vaccination drive. The study concluded that framing of Covid-19 vaccines had not been given the needed prominence and frequency on the vaccination drive. It therefore recommended that Daily Trust newspaper should increase its reportage whenever vaccines are being promoted in combating epidemic or pandemic.