In Nigeria, radio serves as the primary source of news and information for the majority of the population, especially those living in rural areas. It also plays a vital role in promoting peace and stability. Radio has been a powerful medium for bringing together conflicting factions, facilitating dialogue, and fostering understanding among communities during times of crisis. For instance, amidst tribal and ethnic conflicts in some parts of the country, radio stations have provided platforms for various groups to voice their grievances and seek peaceful resolutions.The reliance on radio for information is particularly pronounced in rural areas where access to electricity and strong internet connectivity is limited, making TV and online news inaccessible. Consequently, radio remains the lifeline for these communities, with some stations also utilizing social media platforms for broader reach.
Today, local radio stations have introduced specialized programs, including dramas, talk shows and interviews, predominantly in the Hausa language, to address issues of tribalism and ethnicity prevalent in regions experiencing religious and tribal conflicts. Recognizing the effectiveness of radio as a communication tool, many Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) working on peace initiatives have identified it as a crucial medium for grassroots communication and information dissemination.
Recent initiatives by radio stations focused on extensive sensitization and orientation programs aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence among citizens.One method is the use of programs that include interactive segments where ordinary listeners are encouraged to share their experiences and viewpoints, fostering community engagement and dialogue.
Moreover, community leaders, religious figures, and opinion leaders are frequently invited to participate in these programs to amplify the message of peace and ensure broad dissemination across diverse audiences. In times of crisis, radio stations serve as essential platforms for crisis management and conflict resolution. Leaders from affected communities are promptly invited for interviews to provide guidance and advice on resolving misunderstandings through dialogue. Two prominent radio stations in Kaduna have been recognized for their contributions to peace-building efforts through innovative programing aimed at uniting diverse communities and fostering inclusivity.
Abdul Aziz Ahmed Kadir, General Manager of Liberty Radio, a private FM station, emphasized the pivotal role of radio in promoting peace, highlighting its accessibility and ability to communicate in local languages. He stressed the importance of programs dedicated to promoting peaceful cohabitation and religious tolerance.
“In Liberty Radio ; at least two minutes [are] dedicated to talking and promoting peace building in both English and Hausa by our presenters daily. The need for peaceful cohabitation, religious tolerance and legal provisions and consequences for breach of such is paramount. We have programmes in Hausa and English that dwell, on interfaith harmony and peaceful cohabitation. These programmes feature Islamic and Christian clerics, traditional, women and youth leaders,” he explained.
Similarly, Aliyu Kauru, a local radio presenter with Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC) a state government-owned radio station, underscored the significance of hosting programs in the widely spoken Hausa dialect to reach a broader audience, and promote harmony among different ethnic groups.
Local residents have attested to the positive impact of peace programs on their lives, noting increased awareness and understanding of the importance of peaceful coexistence.
Umar Abdullahi Tijjani, a local driver, emphasized how listening to peace programs on radio has taught him to live peacefully with others in society. “We are really benefiting from such programs. I enjoyed listening to such programs on peace building aired in these radio stations” he said
Adamu Hassan, a resident of Zaria city, highlighted the transformative effect of peace programs on listeners’ perceptions and behaviors, advocating for more stations to dedicate airtime to peace-building initiatives.
Sekyen Dadik, Executive Director of Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF), lauded the media, particularly radio, for its significant role in influencing public opinion and perceptions, particularly on issues related to peace-building. She stressed the need for continued support and engagement to maximize the media’s potential in promoting peace.
“We could harness Radio to fuel conflict or to deescalate conflict and promote peace, that’s why I believe more needs to be done in engaging the media to harness its potential in promoting peace.
“Hence, the media in Kaduna must be commended for playing a huge role in promoting peace in the state, through dedicated programs on radio and television aimed at awaking the people to their collective responsibility in ensuring peaceful coexistence in the state” she said.
Dadik, a member of the Nigeria Network of Facilitators, supported by the United State Institute of Peace (USIP) emphasized that the media, including radio, plays a crucial role in conflict resolution and peace promotion. Hence, it is imperative to provide the necessary support, including training and funding, to harness its potential fully.
Mohammed Ibrahim
Mohammed is a multimedia freelance journalist in Kaduna State, Nigeria. He graduated from the International Institute of Journalism Abuja. In 2016 Mohammed received the Courage in Journalism Award for his investigative reporting, from the Africa Media Development Foundation.
