Use of Drone Technology for Television News Gathering in Nigeria
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Abstract
Drone technology, originally designed for military applications, has increasingly been integrated into civilian sectors, including journalism. This study examines the relevance, applicability, and challenges of drone technology in television news gathering in Nigeria. Anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the study explores how perceived usefulness and ease of use influence journalists' adoption of drones, particularly in covering high-risk events such as natural disasters, conflicts, and protests. Adopting a qualitative desk research approach, data were sourced from scholarly articles, institutional reports, media content, and regulatory documents. Findings reveal that drone technology enhances the safety and efficiency of news gathering by enabling journalists to capture aerial footage from inaccessible or hazardous locations. However, the study also highlights constraints such as regulatory hurdles, ethical concerns, privacy issues, and operational risks. It concludes that while drone technology holds immense potential for transforming television news reporting in Nigeria, its effective utilization requires policy reforms, technical training, and strict adherence to ethical standards. The study recommends strategic investment in drone journalism and regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with security and privacy concerns.
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