The advent of
information and communication technology (ICT) has significantly transformed various
aspects of human activity, including journalism. By empowering ordinary citizens
to actively participate in the journalistic process, ICT has revolutionized the
production, dissemination, and consumption of news. Grounded in the
Technological Acceptance Model (TAM), this study examines the impact of ICT use
by citizen journalists on journalism practice and its implications for
traditional media in Nigeria, using the #BringBackOurGirls and #EndSARS
movements as case studies. The study highlights the evolving dynamics between ICT
and citizen journalism. Findings reveal that ICT-enabled citizen journalism surpasses
traditional media in terms of reach and speed, facilitating global awareness,
mobilizing international support, and exerting pressure on leadership. The
study recommends that traditional media integrate the strengths of citizen
journalism to enhance news production and dissemination. Additionally, it
emphasizes the importance of rigorous verification processes by citizen
journalists to maintain relevance, integrity, and credibility.
