Comparative Analysis of CNN And BBC Coverage of Hilda Baci’s Global Achievement

This research work was undertaken to comparatively analyse CNN and BBC coverage of Hilda Baci’s global achievement. This is in reaction to Western media outlets framing and representation of Africa in a negative light. The content analysis method was adopted for this study. The online publications on CNN and BBC websites between the period in which the event received publicity and Hilda Baci was internationally recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records were censored. Coding sheet was used as instrument of data connection from CNN and BBC websites. The findings indicate that both media outlets projected the importance of Hilda Baci achievement as top headlines, but BBC covered it in a more balanced way. Also, BBC used negative framing that addressed more record challenges and recognised the loss Guinness Book of World Records to an Irishman. In contrast, CNN maintained a wholly positive framing, focusing solely on the achievement’s positive aspects and confirming the new world record, aligning with a more neutral reporting style. The study concludes that foreign media exhibit distinct approaches in portraying events, with BBC incorporating a more balanced perspective that acknowledges challenges and losses, while CNN maintains a predominantly positive framing. Hence, the study recommended that Nigerian authorities and stakeholders should engage in continuous monitoring of foreign media coverage, and take proactive measures to address potential misrepresentations or negative narratives.