How Animation can make a difference in Nigerian Journalism

By Fatime Hamzah

Anime has a very unique and interesting way of storytelling, which, if done right, can pique one’s interest and leave a lasting impression. Actually, it’s blend of entertainment and education makes it an invaluable tool in the field of entertainment generally.

Anime has become a cultural phenomenon in Japan and worldwide, with its effectiveness in advertisements thereby inspiring its potential application in Nigerian journalism.The use of anime in advertisements has particularly become one of the most effective marketing strategies in Japan, and I intend to explore how integrating this strategy into storytelling and journalism can make a huge difference in Nigeria, given its massive ecosystem and potential for cross-media opportunities.

I understand that Animation is often viewed as solely for children, which is a misconception. Everyone has their opinion on it, but many people, in an attempt to appear adult, shy away from anime. Additionally, the notion that anime is Eastern-made media, and therefore less desirable than Western-made content, prevails. However, anime can play an incredible role in changing the narrative of how media is portrayed and consumed when utilized for the right reasons.

Its benefits include its impact on visual attention, its value as a tool for learning, and its potential as a powerful and influential tool for advertisements targeting young audiences, strengthening emotional connections between consumers and brands.

However, anime may not receive widespread recognition and appreciation from Nigerian consumers due to the prevalent stereotypical marketing media. Furthermore, finding the right voice actors for anime productions can be challenging. The labor-intensive animation process, requiring approximately 25 images per second, is another hurdle. For instance, a 25-minute anime would require 30,000 images.

Again, believability is also a concern, as some individuals struggle to relate to “cartoon characters.” And this subjective perspective acknowledges that people may think differently. Despite these challenges, anime can tackle complex issues like mental health, climate change, and social justice, thereby providing diverse perspectives and encouraging viewer engagement.

Meanwhile, by merging entertainment and thought-provoking content, anime can inspire communication about real-world problems. Its potential extends beyond entertainment; anime can generate revenue and even drive industry growth.

The exploration of unconventional themes resonates with modern audiences seeking novelty. And passionate anime fan communities can actively shape culture, promoting innovation and relevance.

Like I said, Anime’s influence extends beyond entertainment; it’s a lifestyle. Its integration into Nigerian journalism can revolutionize media consumption and narrative. As the industry expands, anime will undoubtedly play a significant role. Its ability to address pressing global issues, combined with its educational potential, makes it an indispensable tool for Nigerian journalists.

Therefore, as a student of journalism with interest in visual storytelling techniques, I would suggest that by embracing anime’s unique storytelling style, Nigerian journalism can actually tap into its vast potential, creating a new era of engaging and thought-provoking content for their media audiences.

Hamzah is a 300 level Student of Mass Communication at Skyline University, Kano