Core Editorial Principles

Editorial Standards

Verification and Fact-Checking

• All facts are verified before publication through original documents, official sources, or multiple credible witnesses
• Claims are attributed to specific sources
• We seek comment from all parties mentioned in controversial stories before publication
• Statistics and data are checked for accuracy and context
• We consult subject matter experts when covering complex technical issues

Source Protection

• We protect the confidentiality of sources who provide information in confidence
• Anonymous sources are used only when:
  • The information is newsworthy and in the public interest
  • The information cannot be obtained on the record
  • The source faces genuine risk of harm or retaliation
• We describe anonymous sources as specifically as possible without compromising their identity
• At least one editor must know the identity of anonymous sources

Corrections Policy

• Errors are corrected promptly and transparently
• Corrections are published in a prominent location and noted in the original article
• We distinguish between minor corrections (typos, formatting) and substantive errors
• Substantive corrections include an explanation of the error and what was corrected
• We do not silently edit published articles; significant changes are noted

Language and Tone

• We use clear, accessible language appropriate for a general audience
• We avoid jargon, explaining technical terms when necessary
• Headlines accurately reflect story content and avoid sensationalism
• We use precise language and avoid loaded or inflammatory terms
• We respect the dignity of all people in our reporting

Content Types and Guidelines

News Reporting

News stories are factual, objective, and verified. They answer the essential questions: who, what,
when, where, why, and how. News stories are free from opinion and speculation, presenting facts in
a clear, logical structure. Breaking news is updated as new information becomes available, with
updates clearly marked.

Analysis and Explainers

Analysis pieces provide context, interpretation, and expert insight into news events. They are clearly
labeled as “Analysis” or “Explainer” and written by journalists with relevant expertise. While analysis
may include interpretation, it is grounded in facts and evidence.

Opinion and Commentary

Opinion pieces express the views of individual contributors and do not represent the editorial position
of NigeriaNews.com.ng. They are clearly labeled as “Opinion” or “Commentary” and include an author
byline and bio. We welcome diverse viewpoints and publish opinions across the political spectrum.

Investigative Journalism

Investigative pieces undergo additional layers of review and fact-checking. They are based on original
research, document review, and extensive interviews. We give subjects of investigations adequate time
to respond to allegations before publication. Legal review may be conducted for sensitive investigations.

Features and Human Interest Stories

Feature stories provide in-depth coverage of people, places, and trends. While more narrative in style,
they maintain the same standards of accuracy and fairness as news reporting. Quotes and scenes are not
fabricated or embellished.

Conflicts of Interest

Financial Conflicts

• Journalists do not report on companies or organizations in which they have financial interests
• We disclose when sources have financial relationships with subjects of coverage
• Journalists do not trade stocks based on non-public information obtained through reporting

Personal Relationships

• Journalists do not cover family members, close friends, or personal associates
• Personal relationships with sources are disclosed to editors
• We reassign stories when conflicts arise

Political Activity

• Journalists maintain political impartiality in their work
• Political affiliations and activities are disclosed to editors
• Journalists do not hold partisan political office or actively campaign for candidates

Sensitive Content

Violence and Graphic Content

• We exercise caution when publishing violent or graphic images
• Content warnings are provided for disturbing material
• We consider the public interest value against potential harm
• We respect the dignity of victims and their families

Privacy and Harm

• We respect individuals’ privacy except when public interest outweighs privacy concerns
• We do not name victims of sexual assault without their consent
• We exercise particular care when reporting on minors
• We consider potential harm before publishing identifying information

Suicide and Mental Health

• We report on suicide responsibly, avoiding sensationalism
• We do not describe methods in detail
• We include mental health resources when relevant
• We use appropriate, non-stigmatizing language when discussing mental health

User-Generated Content

Comments Moderation

Comments on our articles are moderated to maintain a respectful environment. We remove comments that:

• Contain hate speech, threats, or harassment
• Are defamatory or false
• Violate privacy or intellectual property rights
• Contain spam or promotional content
• Are off-topic or disruptive

Verification of User Content

When using user-submitted photos, videos, or information, we verify the content and its source.
We credit contributors and obtain necessary permissions. User-generated content is clearly identified
as such.

Digital Media Standards

Photography and Images

• Photos are not manipulated to mislead readers
• Minor adjustments for technical quality are acceptable; significant alterations are disclosed
• Photos are captioned accurately with attribution
• We obtain proper permissions for all images used

Video and Audio

• Video and audio are not edited to misrepresent events or statements
• Edits for length or clarity are acceptable if they maintain context
• We disclose if reenactments or staged elements are used

Social Media

• Social media posts adhere to the same editorial standards as published articles
• We verify information before sharing, even in fast-moving situations
• We correct errors on social media promptly
• Journalists’ personal social media activity does not compromise their impartiality

Advertising and Sponsored Content

Editorial Independence

• Advertising does not influence editorial decisions
• There is a clear separation between advertising and editorial departments
• We do not offer advertisers preferential treatment in news coverage

Sponsored Content

• Sponsored or paid content is clearly labeled as such
• Native advertising is visually distinct from editorial content
• We maintain editorial control over how advertising is displayed
• Sponsored content meets basic accuracy and taste standards

Reader Engagement and Complaints

How to Contact Us

We welcome feedback, questions, and concerns about our coverage. You can reach our editorial team at:

• Editorial inquiries: [email protected]
• Corrections: [email protected]
• Complaints: [email protected]

Complaints Procedure

1. Submit your complaint: Email us with details of your concern, including the article URL and specific issues
2. Initial response: We will acknowledge your complaint within 48 hours
3. Investigation: We will investigate your complaint and review the relevant content
4. Resolution: We will respond within 7 business days with our findings and any actions taken
5. Appeal: If unsatisfied, you may appeal to our senior editorial team

Professional Development

We invest in the ongoing professional development of our journalists through:

• Regular training on editorial standards and emerging issues
• Workshops on investigative techniques and digital journalism
• Ethics training and case study discussions
• Mentorship programs for junior journalists
• Industry conferences and continuing education