In the Nigerian media landscape, sports broadcasting has grown significantly, with sports presenters and analysts becoming pivotal figures in delivering insightful and engaging content.
However, a troubling narrative persists: the perception that sports analysts are apprentices or subordinates to sports presenters. This notion not only undermines the collaborative essence of sports broadcasting but also diminishes the value that analysts bring to the table. It is imperative to correct this narrative and recognize the equal roles these professionals play in the success of sports programming.
With close to a decade experience in the Nigerian sports broadcasting industry, and as someone who has worked as both sports analyst and sports presenter on radio, I can confidently tell you that on most occasions, sports analysts are often seen as subordinates to sports presenters.
Understanding the Roles:
Sports presenters and analysts have unique responsibilities that combine to create dynamic sports programming. A sports presenter is often the face of a program, tasked with hosting, moderating, and maintaining the flow of discussions. Presenters possess excellent communication skills and are skilled in audience engagement.
Analysts, on the other hand, provide depth and expertise. They offer technical analysis, interpret data, and deliver nuanced perspectives, enhancing the audience’s understanding of sports. Analysts are often seasoned professionals or specialists with deep knowledge of sports, adding credibility and substance to the broadcast.
The idea that analysts are apprentices or subordinates likely stems from traditional hierarchical structures in broadcasting, where the presenter, as the most visible personality, is perceived as the leader of the show.
An analyst’s role is not a preparatory stage for becoming a presenter; it is a specialised function that requires its own expertise and training. In fact, analysts are expected to possess more in-depth technical knowledge of sports than presenters, as their primary purpose is to enrich the program with insights.
Unfortunately, in the Nigerian media space, particularly on radio and television, analysts are often undervalued. Many stations place presenters on the payroll but exclude analysts, relegating them to informal or unpaid roles. As a result, many analysts feel compelled to transition into presenting roles simply to earn a livelihood.
In developed countries, such disparities are rare. Presenters and analysts typically maintain their respective roles—unless you’re Gary Lineker😊. In fact, in the UK, many sports analysts earn more than presenters due to their specialized expertise.
Why the Narrative Must Change:
Analysts offer critical insights that elevate the quality of sports discussions. Undermining their role diminishes the value of expertise. Being a good presenter does not automatically make one a good analyst, and vice versa—just as being a good player does not guarantee success as a coach. Though we have those who do both effortlessly, we must give kudos to them.
Media houses must recognise the collaborative nature of sports broadcasting and prioritise placing analysts on salaries to reflect their contributions. While I understand that many Nigerian media houses face financial challenges, including difficulties paying presenters, it is crucial to acknowledge that anything worth doing is worth doing well.
I am also aware of the trend in Nigerian media, particularly in Ibadan, where sports presenters mentor individuals who sometimes read match fixtures and results or contribute to sports shows. However, it’s important to note that these individuals cannot be considered analysts. A presenter’s apprentice who occasionally analyses sports on air is a trainee, not an analyst. The term “analyst” implies a professional with expertise, not someone who is still under the tutelage of a presenter.
In conclusion, as I often say, good analysis is the “egg” we use to enjoy the “yam” of sports broadcasting. The efforts of analysts are indispensable, and they are not apprentices or subordinates to sports presenters.
Finally, another common question is whether a sports analyst is the same as a sports pundit. The answer is no, and I will address this distinction in a future discussion.
Thank you.
@iam_goalgetter
Damilola Amuda GoalGetter
•BA History and International Studies
•MA Media and Communication
•PhD (in progress) Digital Media and Technology
