ABSTRACT
The study investigated how the Nigerian newspapers reported issues on ASUU strike from a period of eight-months (February to August, 2022). However, the specific objectives of the study were to find out the level of frequency given by the Nigerian newspapers on issue of ASUU, to determine the sources of news stories by the Nigerian newspapers, to ascertain the prominence accorded to the coverage, and find out the direction of coverage given by the newspapers. The Agenda Setting theory was adopted for the study. The content analysis research design was adopted for the study using a sample of 75 editions published by the Guardian, The Punch and Vanguard newspapers from February through August 2022. Data were analyzed using simple percentages in tabular form. From the study, it was found out that the Guardian, Vanguard, and The Punch gave high frequency to the issue of ASUU strike during the period of study as the Nigerian newspapers were actively publishing and covering various issues on ASUU strike during the given period, that sources of news stories by the selected newspapers were from press conferences by ASUU, news from government officials, reporters, interviews, and citizens, from which the most cited source was reporter. The Guardian, The Punch and Vanguard newspaper gave prominence to the issue of ASUU strike during the period of review as most of its news stories were on the front page and back page of the newspapers respectively, and that The Guardian, The Punch and Vanguard newspapers leaned towards unfavourable reporting on the ASUU strike as majority of the stories portrayed the strike in a negative light. Based on the above, it was recommended that newspapers should ensure that all information presented in articles is accurate and supported by reliable sources, that newspapers should include diverse perspectives from all stakeholders involved, including representatives from ASUU, government officials, students, parents, and experts in the field of education. This will helps provide a well-rounded view of the situation and encourages readers to form their own opinions, and that newspaper should contextualize the Issues: Provide background information and context about the ASUU strike, including its history, previous strikes, and the underlying issues being addressed.
