GASPRO International Journal of Eminent Scholars

The role of the media in shaping security and economic development agendas in Nigeria is pivotal, as it serves as a bridge between the government, the public, and key stakeholders. This paper examines the "voice of influence" wielded by the media in influencing public perception, guiding policy directions, and advocating for reforms on issues related to security and economic development. As a powerful tool for information dissemination, the media contributes to agenda-setting by highlighting security concerns, economic challenges, and potential development pathways. The paper delves into the media and its contribution to economic development in Nigeria which includes; records dissemination and marketplace attention, advertising of entrepreneurship and innovation and advocacy for economic reforms. This paper explore the types of media platform such as; traditional or conventional media and digital or virtual media, also focusing on the strategies including; content strategies and cross platform strategies. Notwithstanding the media are faced with challenges in promoting security and economic development in Nigeria they include; censorship and press freedom regulations, misinformation and fake information and loss of resources and training. The study concludes that the various ways media help in enhancing security were highlighted as well as the ways media enhances economic development. One of the recommendations provided was that media organizations should uphold independence from political or financial influences that may compromise objectivity. Independent media ensures transparency, holding both the government and private sector accountable for actions that affect security and economic growth.

                 Keyword: Voice, Influence, Role, Media, Security, Economic Development Agenda and Nigeria