1 Chapter RECAP OF AFRICA MEDIA BAROMETER NIGERIA 2008 By Remi Ihejirika(Mrs.), FES Project Manager In October 2008, FES Nigeria used the Africa Media Barometer methodology to assess the media landscape in the country. This methodology was the original work of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Southern African Media Project working together with the Media Institute for Southern Africa(MISA) developed the African Media Barometer in April 2005, it is basically a self assessment exercise done by Africans themselves according to home-grown criteria. The project is the first in-depth and comprehensive description and measurement system for national media environments on the African continent. Methodology: A panel of experts was formed these included representatives of media and civil society at large. They served as panel members in their personal capacities, not as representatives of their respective organisations. The panel had eleven members; they met for a two days retreat to go into a self-assessment process using already developed indicators in a qualitative discussion and determine(quantitative) scores for each indicator. There were 42 indicators grouped into 4 sectors namely: - Freedom of expression including freedom of the media are effectively protected and promoted - The media landscape is characterized by diversity, independence and sustainability - Broadcasting Regulation is transparent and independent; the State broadcaster is transformed into a truly public broadcaster - The media practice high levels of professional standards. Scoring system: Panel members were asked to allocate their individual scores in respect of the indicators after an extensive qualitative discussion in an anonymous manner. The score ranges from 1 to 5, 1 means the country does not meet the indicator while 5 means the country meets all aspects of the indicator. Major Findings: The major findings of the AMB Nigeria 2008 are: - Freedom of expression and media freedom is guaranteed by the constitution but there are limitations to exercising these rights