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

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.