For decades, newspaper vendors were an indispensable part of Nigeria’s media ecosystem, serving as the bridge between newspaper publishers and millions of readers. Today, operators in that once-thriving business are struggling to survive as they contend with digital media, rising operating costs, inflation and declining patronage, writes Sunday Ehigiator
Once the lifeblood of Nigeria’s print media industry, newspaper vendors are gradually disappearing from street corners and busy intersections across the country.
The trade, which once provided a dependable livelihood for thousands and served as the final link between newspaper publishers and millions of readers, is now buckling under the combined weight of digital disruption, soaring operating costs, shrinking print circulation and dwindling patronage.
Many vendors have abandoned the business entirely, while those who remain have been forced to diversify into selling bottled water, snacks, recharge cards and other items to make ends meet.
The rapid migration of news consumers to digital platforms, rising inflation and the escalating cost of newsprint are some of the challenges confronting newspaper vendor business.
