Project Abstract

Abstract
The effects of world information flow imbalance on third world countries, with Nigeria as a case study, have been a topic of increasing concern in today's globalized world. This research seeks to analyze the impact of information flow imbalances on Nigeria and explore the implications for other developing nations facing similar challenges. The imbalance in world information flow has been a persistent issue that has widened the gap between developed and developing countries. The unequal distribution of information resources and the dominance of Western media have contributed to shaping the narrative around developing nations like Nigeria. This has often resulted in stereotypes, misinformation, and a lack of diverse perspectives in the global discourse. In the context of Nigeria, the effects of world information flow imbalance manifest in various ways. The dominance of Western media narratives has influenced how the country is perceived internationally, shaping foreign policies, investment decisions, and even humanitarian aid efforts. This has, in turn, impacted Nigeria's ability to control its own narrative and address key issues such as governance, security, and economic development effectively. Furthermore, the imbalance in information flow has also affected the development of local media industries in Nigeria. The overwhelming presence of foreign media outlets and content has posed challenges to the growth and sustainability of indigenous media organizations. As a result, local voices and perspectives are often marginalized, contributing to a limited representation of the country's diverse cultures and realities. Addressing the effects of world information flow imbalance on Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing media literacy, promoting cultural exchange programs, and supporting the development of local media infrastructure are essential steps towards creating a more balanced information ecosystem. Additionally, fostering partnerships between local and international media outlets can help amplify diverse voices and narratives from Nigeria. By understanding the implications of world information flow imbalances on third world countries like Nigeria, policymakers, media practitioners, and stakeholders can work towards fostering a more equitable global information landscape. Through targeted interventions and collaborative efforts, it is possible to mitigate the negative effects of information flow imbalances and empower developing nations to participate more actively in shaping their own narratives on the world stage.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION

1.0 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The world information flow controversy is perhaps the most topical issue in international communities today.

This global controversy is basically about the demand by the south for a change in the present pattern of information flow between it and the north. The south also knows that the third world or under developed or developing countries of the world contends that there is gross unbalance both in quality and quantity, in global information flow between the south and the north, also known as the first world countries of the world.

This unbalance according to the south, has placed it at the receiving end as developing countries are daily bombarded with information and other media materials which do not meet their development needs and more importantly tend to debase their culture and portray them as inferior in the eyes of all.

Supporting this assertion, Okunna (1993:92) say, A lot of research evidence has been gathered over the year to demonstrate the unbalance in the quality and particularly, quantity of global mass communication. This unbalance with the attendant dangers of culture domination through mass communication in at the root of protracted demand for a new world information and communication.

The north on its own part argues that the flow of information should be free and unrestricted quoting the 1940 united Nation (UN) declaration on the freedom of information as the basis of her arguments.