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From Airwaves to Farmlands: How Radio Programmes in Indigenous Languages Are Shaping Agricultural Development in North-Central Nigeria

Author

Listed:
  • Babatunde Adeyeye

    (Indigenous Language Media in Africa Research Entity, Northwest University, Mafikeng Campus, Mmbatho PMB X2046, South Africa)

  • Abiodun Salawu

    (Indigenous Language Media in Africa Research Entity, Northwest University, Mafikeng Campus, Mmbatho PMB X2046, South Africa)

Abstract

This study investigated agricultural radio programmes in specific indigenous languages (Hausa and Tiv) and their role in supporting agricultural development in North-Central Nigeria. Data were collected through interviews with the programme producers. Qualitative data were analysed using Systematic content analysis (SCA). The results showed the programme format, the topics treated per season, the availability of discussants, the feedback mechanism of previous programmes, and the programme’s influence on the audience. The study concluded that radio programmes in indigenous languages play a crucial role in agricultural development. However, the study also highlighted the urgent need for more support for these programmes, particularly in partnerships with agricultural sector organisations for technical and financial support. The study drives a crucial political debate on the role of media in rural development, the promotion of indigenous languages, support for agricultural policy, and political influence, including creating more inclusive and community-focused policies and increased engagement between government, media organisations, and agricultural stakeholders.

Suggested Citation

  • Babatunde Adeyeye & Abiodun Salawu, 2025. "From Airwaves to Farmlands: How Radio Programmes in Indigenous Languages Are Shaping Agricultural Development in North-Central Nigeria," World, MDPI, vol. 6(1), pages 1-17, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jworld:v:6:y:2025:i:1:p:9-:d:1561127
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Paolo Mefalopulos, 2008. "Development Communication Sourcebook : Broadening the Boundaries of Communication," World Bank Publications - Books, The World Bank Group, number 6439, April.
    2. Lowe, Philip & Phillipson, Jeremy & Proctor, Amy & Gkartzios, Menelaos, 2019. "Expertise in rural development: A conceptual and empirical analysis," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 116(C), pages 28-37.
    3. Qian Yu & Patience Pokuaa Gambrah, 2024. "Information Network Among Farmers: A Case Study in Ghana," SAGE Open, , vol. 14(1), pages 21582440241, January.
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