International broadcaster, the Cable
News Network (CNN), has angered Nigerians for omitting the country’s
name in the headline of a report announcing the visit of Facebook
founder, Mark Zuckerberg, to Africa’s most populous country.
The headline mentioned Sub-Sahara Africa as Mr. Zuckerberg’s destination.
That headline promptly sparked anger in
one of the world’s largest oil producers, with citizens taking to
Facebook and Twitter to attack the broadcaster for omitting ‘Nigeria’
and creating the impression that Africa was a country.
Nigerians who commented on the matter expressed strong views, and sought to salvage their national pride.
“CNN it’s NIGERIA!!!” Facebook user,
Iloh Andrew, said. “I know you are shy to say it is Nigeria…safe, sound
and happy to be here…not the Nigeria you
propagate as a drop bomb zone.”
Another Facebook user, Bola Aduwo, said,
“CNN please what is Sub-Sahara Africa? An area of over 20 countries.
Why can’t you be specific? What will it cost to say Nigeria?”
Mr. Aduwo said Nigeria had the largest
Facebook community in Africa with over 16 million users, and, therefore,
deserved respect.
“We can no longer be ignored,” he added. “Receive sense please.”
“If Mr. Mark had gone to a European
country, will you tweet this way: ‘Mark makes first ever visit to
Europe’ — CNN Africa?”Twitter user @oluwatimilehino asked.
“Ewo ni Sub-Sahara Africa (which one is Sub-Sahara Africa)?” Twitter user @fireofola queried. “Nigeria is too much to mention?”
And again on Facebook, there was one user questioning the news organisation’s understanding of maps.
“Just say he came to Nigeria. If you don’t know where that one is, check your map, don’t be shy,” said a user, Winnie Coco.”
Credit: Premium Times
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