Award-winning Nigerian journalist Zainab Bala, a former presenter of GIST Nigeria, has spoken about the challenges she experienced during her nine-month stint on the programme, which was jointly produced by BBC Africa and Channels Television.

Bala said one of the major issues arose over her decision to wear her hijab while presenting the programme. She said she had worn the hijab during her recruitment interview in 2023 and had made it clear that she intended to continue wearing it if offered the job.

According to her account, after she moved from Abuja to Lagos and completed training, her first programme was recorded at the Channels Television headquarters with her hijab on. However, she said the programme was not broadcast for several weeks because of discussions between the BBC and Channels Television concerning her appearance.

Bala said she felt stereotyped and demoralised by the situation. She explained that she eventually stayed because she believed her presence could help create opportunities for other Muslim women in the media.

During her time on the programme, she presented several editions and used her background as a Muslim woman from northern Nigeria to contribute stories, particularly those focusing on women and stereotypes in northern Nigeria.

Bala also alleged that she experienced what she described as “mental and emotional bullying” from her editor. She said the experience contributed to her decision to leave the BBC, despite initially planning to continue developing her career within the organisation.

She described the nine months as one of the most difficult periods of her professional life and said she ultimately chose to leave for her peace of mind.

The BBC, however, said it strives to maintain an inclusive workplace and noted that presenters and correspondents who wear hijab regularly appear on its programmes, including GIST Nigeria. The broadcaster said it does not comment on individual HR matters but takes allegations of bullying seriously and investigates complaints when they are made.

Bala disputed a photograph provided by the BBC as evidence of her presenting while wearing a hijab, saying the image showed her reporting a story rather than presenting GIST Nigeria. She maintained that the circumstances surrounding her experience were connected to the programme’s joint production with Channels Television.