Decolonisation Efforts of Indigenous Language Media in Nigeria: A Case of Orisun 89.5 FM

Abstract

This study evaluates the strategies and methods used by indigenous 
language media in achieving language decolonisation using a 
monolingual radio station in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. The study 
adopted Diglossia theory to situate the decolonial potency of the 
broadcast media and its role in language revitalisation. Quantitative 
research design was used for the study. Data were gathered through 
questionnaire, which was administered to 25 out of 34 workers of 
Orisun 89.5 FM contingent on availability of the workers. The data 
were analysed with simple percentages, mean and standard deviation. 
The results of the study revealed that Orisun 89.5 FM as an indigenous 
radio station evolved different strategies to achieve decolonisation and 
endear listeners to the station as a way to revitalise Yoruba language 
while the management also provided quality management principles in 
the area of staff recruitment (72%) and monitoring (60%) of 
programme content and dissemination. Much more importantly, Orisun 
89.5 FM ensured the use of standard Yoruba language for 
programming (76%). Indigenous Language radio stations like Orisun 89.5 FM played significant role in the revitalisation of endangered Yoruba language. It was recommended that government at all levels, 
corporate organisations and private individuals should come up to 
assist the existing monolingual radio stations in the country in the area 
of finance if actually indigenous language survival and revitalisation is 
a concern.