The Federal Government Vows to Enhance Community Radio for Democratic Strengthening
In a statement released on Tuesday to mark World Radio Day, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, affirmed the government’s dedication to expanding community radio as a tool to bolster the nation’s democracy.
Celebrated annually on February 13, this year’s theme, “Radio: A century informing, entertaining, and educating,” underscores radio’s enduring significance in communication for over a century, despite the rise of social media, noted Idris.
Highlighting radio’s pivotal role in shaping public opinion and fostering cultural unity, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation, Idris emphasized its capacity to give voice to all segments of society.
Acknowledging the importance of local language broadcasting, Idris disclosed ongoing governmental reforms to facilitate the establishment of community radio stations, aiming to enhance their reliability, efficiency, and affordability.
While Nigeria currently boasts 89 licensed community radio stations, the government, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, pledges to create a conducive environment for additional stations to emerge and for existing ones to thrive, he added.
Idris urged investment in community radio, citing its potential to fortify democracy, promote social cohesion, and provide rural populations with access to credible information, aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.