Background of the Study
Religious journalism, which involves the coverage and reporting of religious issues, beliefs, and practices, plays a critical role in promoting social cohesion and peace, especially in diverse and conflict-prone regions. In Sokoto North LGA, Sokoto State, where Islam is the dominant religion and there is a rich religious tradition, religious journalism has become a key tool in fostering peace and promoting interfaith understanding. The media’s coverage of religious events, peace-building initiatives, and the ethical teachings of religion can significantly influence public attitudes towards tolerance, unity, and peaceful coexistence (Bello & Suleiman, 2023). Religious journalists not only report on faith-related matters but also provide a platform for religious leaders to address issues such as sectarianism, intolerance, and extremism. This study aims to explore how religious journalism in Sokoto North LGA contributes to the promotion of peace, social harmony, and conflict resolution, especially in the context of Nigeria’s religious and ethnic diversity.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In Sokoto North LGA, religious issues can sometimes contribute to social divisions, especially when sectarian tensions or extremist ideologies take center stage. While religious journalism offers an opportunity to address these challenges, there is limited research on how effectively it contributes to peace-building efforts in the region. Furthermore, the influence of religious journalism on public perceptions of interfaith harmony and conflict resolution remains under-explored. This study seeks to fill this gap by examining the role of religious journalism in fostering peace in Sokoto North LGA, evaluating its impact on promoting tolerance and resolving conflicts.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To examine the role of religious journalism in promoting peace in Sokoto North LGA.
To assess the impact of religious media coverage on interfaith understanding and social harmony in Sokoto North LGA.
To identify challenges and propose strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of religious journalism in fostering peace in Sokoto North LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
What role does religious journalism play in promoting peace in Sokoto North LGA?
How effective is religious journalism in promoting interfaith understanding and tolerance in Sokoto North LGA?
What challenges limit the effectiveness of religious journalism in fostering peace in Sokoto North LGA?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Religious journalism plays a significant role in fostering peace in Sokoto North LGA.
Religious journalism contributes positively to interfaith understanding and social harmony in Sokoto North LGA.
The effectiveness of religious journalism in promoting peace is hindered by factors such as bias, limited resources, and sectarian tensions.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it explores the potential of religious journalism to promote peace and conflict resolution in Sokoto North LGA. By understanding how religious media influences public attitudes and fosters interfaith cooperation, the study will provide valuable insights for journalists, religious leaders, and policymakers seeking to use media as a tool for peace-building. The findings will also help to improve the coverage of religious issues in a way that promotes tolerance and harmony in a region marked by religious diversity.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on the role of religious journalism in promoting peace within Sokoto North LGA, Sokoto State. The research examines the media practices of local religious outlets and their impact on interfaith relations and social cohesion. It does not extend to other forms of journalism or regions outside Sokoto North LGA.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Religious Journalism: The practice of reporting on religious topics, events, and issues related to faith, often with a focus on promoting understanding and social harmony.
Peace-building: The process of promoting social harmony, resolving conflicts, and fostering positive relationships between different communities, particularly across religious or ethnic divides.
Sokoto North LGA: A local government area in Sokoto State, Nigeria, where religious journalism is examined in the context of peace promotion.
ABSTRACT
Motivation is considered as an important tool for enhancing worker’ productivity. Construction sector is...
Abstract: Innovations in promoting lifelong learning habits among vocational educators are...
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to assess knowledge, practice and factors influencing birth prepare...
ABSTRACT
This study examined the total replacement of fishmeal (FM) with poultry hatchery waste meal (PHWM) in practical...
PUBLIC SECTOR FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS AND THEIR APPLICATION IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS
The objectives of this resea...
Background of the Study
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Northern Nigeria face n...
ABSTRACT: This study explores the role of early childhood education in developing cooking skills among young children. Early exposure to cooki...
Background of the study
Acceptance and usage of family planning among married women in Nigeria has beco...
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
The secretary no doubt occupies a very important position in an organization and her ina...
Background of the Study
Entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic development in Barkin Ladi LGA, with...