Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris has called for more investment in community radio stations as he praised radio as a medium of communication and information that has served the nation for over 100 years.
In a statement to mark World Radio Day on Tuesday, Idris said radio has been an essential tool for disseminating government plans and programs to all levels of society, including the grassroots, since 1933.
“Radio has played a vital role in shaping public opinion and promoting cultural unity in our diverse nation. It provides a platform for people of all backgrounds to speak out, be represented, and be heard, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.”
He also said radio has become a valuable means of conflict resolution and a source of hope for the oppressed, especially in rural areas where access to other forms of media is limited.
Idris said the government recognizes the diversity of the Nigerian population and the power of radio to reach people in their local languages. He said the government has initiated necessary reforms to make community radio stations more reliable, efficient, and affordable than traditional radio stations.
“Currently, only 89 such stations have been granted broadcast licenses in Nigeria. However, the government intends to change this trend by providing a more favourable environment for other radio stations to emerge and for the existing ones to strengthen their capacity and thrive.”
The Minister urged sub-national governments, wealthy Nigerians, and other stakeholders to invest in establishing community radio stations, saying such an investment will strengthen democracy, promote social cohesion, and provide credible information to the people, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said the government will collaborate with UNESCO, the United Nations agency that proclaimed and adopted World Radio Day as an international day in 2011, to drive these reforms and develop the required capacity in the sector.
Idris also urged all radio stations, whether traditional or online, to be more responsible in their operations by adhering to the principles and ethics of broadcasting.
“Editorial functions, such as fact-checking, objectivity, and balance, must be ensured before news is released. We must uphold the credibility and trust associated with radio, which most Nigerians value highly.”
He congratulated radio listeners and urged them to use radio to learn, grow, and make their voices heard. He also congratulated UNESCO for reminding the world of the value radio adds to people’s lives.
“Happy World Radio Day,” the Minister concluded.
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