Nigerian Ministers of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris has used the occasion of 2024 World Radio Day, February 13th, adopted as International Day by UNESCO, to call for establishment of Community Radio stations across Nigeria.
In his statement to the international day, the Minister urged sub-national governments, wealthy Nigerians, and other stakeholders to invest in establishing community radio stations, adding such investment will undoubtedly strengthen democracy.
Alhaji Idris also added that such an investment will promote social cohesion, and provide those living in rural areas with access to credible information, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We will collaborate with UNESCO to drive these reforms and develop the required capacity in the sector to strengthen radio’s ability to disseminate credible and reliable information to the people”, Idris said
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Radio: A Century of Informing, Entertaining and Educating”, the Minister said this theme reflects the remarkable achievement of radio as a means of communication, information for over 100 years, despite the advent of social media.
He further said the theme also highlights the promise of a dynamic future for radio as a platform that has stood the test of time. “The government recognizes the diversity of the Nigerian population and acknowledges the power of radio to reach people in their local languages.
“To make community radio more reliable, efficient, and affordable, the government has initiated necessary reforms in the process of establishing community radio stations. Currently, only 89 such stations have been granted broadcast licenses in Nigeria.
“However, the government intends to change this trend by providing a more favourable environment for other radio stations to emerge and for the existing ones to strengthen their capacity and thrive”.
The Minister also urged all radio stations, whether traditional or online, to be more responsible in their operations by adhering to the principles and ethics of broadcasting.
“Editorial functions, such as fact-checking, objectivity, and balance, must be ensured before news is released. We must uphold the credibility and trust associated with radio, which most Nigerians value highly”.
While congratulating radio listeners and urged them to use radio to learn, grow, and make their voices heard, Idris hailed UNESCO for reminding the world of the value radio adds to every lives.