Radio is an organ of mass communication through which information is disseminated to diverse audience.
Like every other mass media, its function is to inform, educate and entertain people.
Radio which came into being in 1930 was the first mass medium of communication, reaching millions of people.
Since then, Radio has played a significant role in fostering peace among individuals, communities and nations through various programmes.
To recognise the role radio plays in preventing, mitigating and managing conflict situations, United Nations educational, scientific and cultural organisation, UNESCO, in 2011 set aside thirteen of every February as world radio day.
It is a day to celebrate the impact of radio in pursuing more peaceful and tolerant world.
It is an occassion to draw attention to the unique value of radio, which remains the medium to reach the widest audience.
This year’s theme is ‘’radio and trust’’ and there is a reason nearlytwo hundred and fifty million people listen to radio weekly because it is a trusted medium.
According to Jacob media tech survey, 2019, people tune to radio stations for news, companionship, favourite songs/artists and the personalities on air.
While social media may be prevalent within a brand’s strategy, , there is nothing like the human voice to connect and influence.
An example is the 1994 Rwanda genocide which escalated as a result of misinformation by radio broadcast.
Radio can be a powerful medium for spreading misinformation and insecurity as well as for peace building mission.
It is a perfect medium to counter appeals for violence and the spread of conflict, especially in regions potentially exposed to such.
It is pertinent at this juncture to say that media professionals should always ensure that programmes are well structured before they are disseminated on radio.
However, proliferation of radio stations in the country had posed challenges of influx of quacks which also leads to unprofessional programmes.
Programmes that can cause conflict should be avoided at all times while giving priority to the ones that foster peace and unity.
The body saddled with monitoring media organisations in the country, national broadcasting commission, NBC, should not relent its efforts at sanitising the sector.
As the country is going through security challenges, it is incumbent on radio stations to disseminate programmes that will strengthen the unity and peaceful coexistence of the citizens.
Titilayo Kupoliyi
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