COVERAGE OF HEALTH ISSUES IN NIGERIAN NEWSPAPERS

In recent years there has been growing concern about public health in Nigeria and the need to promote sustainable health behaviors. The mass media play a vital role in shaping health awareness and behavior by determining the type amount and frequency of health information shared with the public. This study assesses how the media set the agenda for the health sector mobilizing government and public action toward better health outcomes. Using content analysis and purposive sampling the research examines the role of three major Nigerian newspapers—The Guardian Punch and Vanguard—in shaping public health discourse. Over three months 386 health reports were analyzed focusing on the portrayal and emphasis of health issues particularly children's health and HIV/AIDS. Findings highlight the significant role of these newspapers in health reporting but also reveal the need for more prominent coverage of health topics. Recommendations include enhancing the focus on health issues to improve public awareness and understanding. This research underscores the media's potential to drive public health initiatives and foster an informed and healthy society.