Writer Guidelines
Everything you need to know about creating quality content for GNA News. Follow these standards to ensure your work meets our editorial bar.
Content Standards
Every piece published on GNA News must meet these core standards. They protect our credibility, serve our audience, and uphold the integrity of Nigerian journalism.
Originality
All submissions must be original work. Plagiarism in any form is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate account suspension. Cite all sources appropriately.
Accuracy & Verification
Fact-check every claim, statistic, and quote before submission. Unverified information damages credibility and public trust. Include source links where applicable.
Fairness & Balance
Present multiple perspectives on contentious issues. Avoid bias, sensationalism, or inflammatory language. Let facts speak, not opinions dressed as news.
Respect & Dignity
Treat all subjects with respect. Avoid language that demeans individuals or communities based on ethnicity, religion, gender, or political affiliation.
Image Standards
Only use images you own or have licensed. AI-generated images must be clearly labeled. Minimum resolution: 1200x800px. No watermarked stock photos.
Timeliness
News should be current and relevant. Follow-up pieces on developing stories are welcome when they add new information or context.
Style Guide
Consistent style makes GNA News readable, professional, and trustworthy. Follow these formatting and writing conventions for every submission.
Headlines
Clear, concise, and compelling. Avoid clickbait. Active voice preferred. Include key subject and action. Maximum 12 words.
Lead Paragraph
Answer who, what, when, where, why, and how in the first 2-3 sentences. Hook the reader immediately with the most important information.
Structure
Use short paragraphs (2-4 sentences). Include subheadings for longer pieces. Bullet points for lists. Keep reading level accessible (Form 4+).
Quotes
Use direct quotes to add human voice. Attribute clearly. Verify speaker identity. Do not edit quotes to change meaning.
Hyperlinks
Link to relevant sources, previous coverage, and official documents. External links should open in new tabs. Avoid excessive linking.
Language
Use clear British/Nigerian English. Avoid jargon. Define technical terms. Be culturally sensitive in language choices.
Word Count Guidelines
300-500
News Briefs
Breaking news, quick updates, short reports
800-1,200
Standard Articles
Feature stories, analysis, interviews
1,500-2,500
In-Depth Pieces
Investigations, long-form features, special reports
Prohibited Content
Publishing any of the following will result in immediate rejection, account review, and potential permanent suspension. No exceptions.
Hate speech, incitement to violence, or discrimination against any group
Explicitly false or deliberately misleading information (disinformation)
Content that endangers national security or promotes terrorism
Sexually explicit material or gratuitous violence
Personal attacks, doxxing, or harassment of private individuals
Unsubstantiated allegations against named individuals without evidence
Content that violates any Nigerian law or international human rights standards
Promotional content disguised as news (native advertising without disclosure)
Submission Process
From first draft to publication, here is exactly what happens when you submit an article to GNA News.
Draft Your Article
Write your piece following all guidelines. Use the article editor to format properly. Add images, videos, and source links.
Self-Review
Run through our checklist: fact-check, grammar check, image rights, headline quality, and source verification.
Submit for Review
Submit via your Writer Dashboard. Status changes to "Pending Review". An editor will be assigned within 24 hours.
Editorial Review
Editor checks for accuracy, style, grammar, and guideline compliance. You may receive feedback or revision requests.
Publication
Once approved, your article is published with your byline. You receive a notification and it appears on your profile.
Typical Review Timeline
24-48 Hours
Initial editorial review
0-72 Hours
Feedback / revision round
Same Day
Publication after final approval
Category-Specific Writing Tips
Focus on policy impact, not personality. Report on legislative processes, governance outcomes, and civic participation. Avoid partisan language.
Use verified economic data. Cite official sources like CBN, NBS, or SEC. Explain market trends in accessible language.
Highlight Nigerian innovation and EdTech solutions. Cover policy changes affecting the sector. Include expert commentary.
Cite medical professionals or peer-reviewed research. Avoid giving medical advice. Focus on public health policy and wellness trends.
Report on farming innovations, policy changes, and food security. Include farmer voices and rural perspectives.
Cover Nigerian athletes and teams. Include match reports, athlete profiles, and sports governance. Verify scores and statistics.
Celebrate Nigerian arts, music, fashion, and traditions. Respect cultural contexts. Promote positive cultural narratives.
Protect sources. Maintain rigorous evidence standards. Consult legal team before publishing sensitive findings.
Ready to Start Writing?
If your application has been approved, log in to your Writer Dashboard to begin drafting, submitting, and tracking your articles. Need help? Contact our editorial team.