By Yemi Olajutemu
Ado Ekiti
The Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Prof. Chika Asogwa, has reaffirmed the relevance of radio in the digital age, insisting that the medium continues to serve as a critical tool for information dissemination.
Speaking on EKTV’s News and Current Affairs programme, Daybreak Nigeria, in commemoration of World Radio Day, Asogwa, who is also a Reverend Sister, traced the evolution of radio from Guglielmo Marconi’s 1895 wireless transmission to Nigeria’s first broadcast in 1932. She described radio as one of the most enduring forms of mass communication, having adapted to various technological advancements over the decades.
She noted that while digital technology has revolutionized radio broadcasting through internet streaming, podcasts, and social media integration, traditional radio remains indispensable, particularly in rural communities where it provides crucial updates on health, agriculture, and education, noting that many people in remote areas still rely on radio as their primary source of news and public service announcements.
According to her, the industry is grappling with several challenges, including competition from digital platforms, declining advertising revenue, and regulatory concerns. She observed that as audiences shift towards online content, traditional broadcasters must rethink their strategies to remain relevant and financially viable.
Despite these hurdles, the don maintained that radio continues to thrive by fostering community engagement, upholding free expression, and adopting innovative strategies such as visual radio and AI-driven content personalization. These adaptations, she explained, have helped radio maintain its unique ability to connect with audiences in real-time.
She also highlighted the role of radio in promoting national unity and cultural preservation, as it remains a platform where local languages, music, and traditions are amplified. Unlike many other media, radio’s accessibility makes it a powerful tool for reaching diverse populations, including those without internet access.
Prof. Asogwa emphasized that rather than rendering traditional radio obsolete, digital technology has expanded its accessibility and audience reach, reinforcing its role in contemporary society. She noted that the ability to listen to radio via mobile phones, smart speakers, and online platforms has broadened its impact. ,
The communication guru therefore, called on stakeholders in the media industry to embrace innovation while preserving the core values of radio broadcasting. According to her, investing in content development, improving signal coverage, and leveraging emerging technologies will ensure that radio remains a formidable force in the evolving media landscape.