Abstract

This study examined the coverage of agriculture between January and December (2007) in the Nigerian press. The method adopted was content analysis and 288 issues of 3 selected newspapers were analyzed; Guardian, Tribune and Punch. 5 research questions were raised and adequately substantiated on newspapers coverage of agricultural programs and development in Nigeria. The findings of the study however, revealed that the Nigerian press did not give sufficient coverage to issues on agriculture in comparison to other sectors of the Nigerian economy. Furthermore, the paper observed that issues on agriculture did not receive favorable coverage by the newspapers. The paper therefore suggests that the press should endeavor to give adequate attention to various issues on agriculture as well as its developmental programs in its reportage so as to facilitate sustainable development in agriculture.

Key words: Agriculture, development, newspaper reportage and Nigeria.