Perception of Radio Programmes as Tool for Community Development in Igboho, Oyo State

This study investigates the influence of Gravity 88.1FM, a community
radio station, on community development in Igboho, Oyo State,
Nigeria. Radio, as an affordable and widely accessible medium, has
been instrumental in promoting social cohesion, raising awareness,
and empowering communities globally. However, limited research
exists on its specific role in fostering development in rural Nigerian
towns like Igboho. The study focuses on three key areas: the community
development programs aired by Gravity 88.1FM, residents’ perceptions
of these programs, and the station’s impact on Igboho’s social,
economic, and cultural growth. The research is grounded in Agenda
Setting Theory and Direct Effects Theory, which provide a framework
for understanding how media shapes public priorities and prompts
immediate behavioral changes. Using a quantitative survey design,
data were collected from 383 randomly selected residents of Igboho.
Findings reveal that programs such as Lagbegbe wa and Beyond the
Headlines significantly influenced education, infrastructure
awareness, economic participation, and social cohesion. Residents
credited the station with fostering cultural pride, increasing community
engagement, and providing a platform for dialogue on governance and
local issues. However, the study identified gaps, particularly the lack of
focus on addressing unemployment and poverty, which are pressing concerns for the community. The study recommends expanding
programming to include employment-oriented content, strengthening
collaborations with other media outlets to amplify developmental
impacts, and leveraging radio as a platform for enhanced government
citizen engagement. These recommendations aim to maximize the
station’s potential as a catalyst for sustainable community
development.