International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume VI, Issue XII, December 2022|ISSN 2454-6186
Port Harcourt Residents’ Perception of Energyplatform Programme on Nigeria Info 92.3FM
Ochia, Stevenson Enemuwa1 (Doctorial Student), Bobmanuel, Karibi Benson PhD2, Umunnah, Blessing Onyinyechukwu PhD3
1Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
2Department of Mass Communication, Ken Saro Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori , Rivers State, Nigeria
3Department of English Language and Communication Studies Federal University, Otuoke Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Abstract: – This study examined Port Harcourt residents’ perception of EnergyPlatform programme on Nigeria Info 92.3fm. It ascertained the extent of audience awareness, how the programme enriched audience knowledge base and/or how such perceptions enhanced transition from fossil fuels and hydropower energies to biomass renewable energy sources. . Findings reveal there is a degree of relationship between the extent of the audience awareness of EnergyPlatform programme and the nature and content on Nigeria Info 92.3fm radio station. It also showcased the programme as a contributor to the local energy debate, current energy technological trends and the peculiarity of biomass alternative energy source for electricity generation. The study concludes, EnergyPlatform programme is positioned as a purveyor of attitude and policy change development; therefore, has a significant influence on the listeners. This research recommends the need for presenters’ to continue to generate and sustain its global content with direct relevance to local needs via the use of Pidgin English and other local languages to enhance a wider reach.
Keywords: Residents, Perception, Energyplatform, programme,
I. INTRODUCTION
The mass media, particularly the broadcast and/or electronic media, Daramola (2014, p.147) have become the most potent and efficient platform in reaching its diverse audience. Radio broadcasts have the inherent propensity to become sources of reliable news items where access to the internet is blocked and phones lines are cut off. Digital radio stations provide twenty- four (24) hours a day, all-round-the-clock and most recent updates to its listeners.
While new technologies: satellites, online and cell phones radios are on the up-surge; in a more elaborate sense none seemed to have reached the frequency, reach and penetration across frontier like the traditional radio. The last decade observed, Levine (2011) has seen a steady increase in radio stations across Africa including, locally-managed community stations where the masses can still search the air-waves for trustworthy news sources.
Okon and Ezebuihe (2018) affirmed, the radio has been regarded as the most pervasive and effective medium in reaching the country’s widely dispersed heterogeneous audience.