Radio as Platform for Public Sphere to Contribute towards National Development in Nigeria: Study Radio Nigeria Kaduna Hausa Service Programme 'Hannu-Da-Yawa'

Abstract

National development is what all leaders worldwide strive to achieve regardless of the type of government they operate. In a democratic setting like that of Nigeria, the governments make deliberate efforts to galvanize both human and material resources to achieve development. Human resources are the most important, so it is imperative to strategically mobilize citizens to contribute in the right direction. This calls for the need to utilize the new media as an instrument for social mobilization where citizens are informed, educated and given room to make contributions. This paper examines the role Radio Nigeria Kaduna Hausa Service programme Hannu-Da-Yawa (Public Sphere sort of) plays by bringing avenues for guests and audiences to discuss issues of national importance in a manner that engenders development. Participatory Liberal Theory is used, and the correlation between what the theory advocates and the programme Hannu Da Yawa is all about has been clearly established. The study is qualitative, and an in-depth personal interview was conducted in collecting data, and the collected data was analyzed using thematic analyses. Findings revealed that the programme is making tremendous contributions towards achieving national development. Recommendations were made and directed to the audience, the radio station authorities, guests, and above all, the government for consideration and implementation.