Cost–Benefit Analysis of Investigative Journalism in Insurgency-Affected Northern Nigeria

Authors: Nikade, Anderson PhD & Akarara, Ebierinyo Ayebaemi PhD

Affiliation: Department of Economics Faculty of Social Sciences, Niger Delta University Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Corresponding Author: [email protected]

October 23, 2025

SIAR-Global Journal of Arts & Humanities

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17423373

Cost–Benefit Analysis of Investigative Journalism in Insurgency-Affected Northern Nigeria
Research Article Arts & Humanities

Abstract

This study examined the advantages and disadvantages of investigative journalism in Northern Nigeria, where journalism practice has changed due to ongoing insecurity and inadequate institutional frameworks.  Structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews were used to gather data from 120 investigative journalists, editors, and media professionals as part of a mixed-method research design.  The trade-offs between the institutional, social, and economic aspects of investigative reporting were measured using descriptive statistics and cost-benefit ratio analysis.  The findings show that the biggest expenses for journalists working in the area are security threats, a lack of institutional support, and budgetary limitations.  With a cost-benefit ratio of 1.06:1, it was determined that the advantages, especially in raising public awareness, accountability, and transparency, outweighed these disadvantages. The results highlight the paradox of risk and value that investigative journalism entails: in spite of the risks involved, the practice produces quantifiable public benefits like democratic oversight and conflict resolution.  The study comes to the conclusion that even though investigative journalism is still financially and personally taxing, its benefits to society warrant ongoing funding and institutional safeguards.  To increase the sustainability and efficacy of investigative reporting in Nigeria's conflict-prone areas, it suggests better safeguards for journalists, increased cooperation between the media and security forces, and focused donor assistance. 

Keywords

Investigative journalism, cost–benefit analysis, insurgency, Northern Nigeria, accountability, media economics.

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How to Cite

Nikade, Anderson PhD & Akarara, Ebierinyo Ayebaemi PhD (2025). Cost–Benefit Analysis of Investigative Journalism in Insurgency-Affected Northern Nigeria. SIAR-Global Journal of Arts & Humanities, Vol. 1, No. 1. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17423373

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Article Information

  • Type: Research Article
  • Journal: SIAR-Global Journal of Arts & Humanities
  • Subject Area: Arts & Humanities
  • Published: October 23, 2025
  • Volume: 1
  • Issue: 1
  • Word Count: Not specified
  • DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17423373
  • Processing Fee: $50.00 USD

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