EMPOWERING THE MARGINALISED COMMUNITIES IN MULTICULTURAL NIGERIA: THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY RADIO

Abstract

In a country like Nigeria, characterized by people of different races, ethnicities,
religion and nationalities, there are bound to be marginalised communities. These set of people
are being treated insignificantly and rendered powerless in the society they live in. Community
radio stations across the nation have taken it upon themselves to empower these marginalised
communities and be the voice for the people, as it is vital in combating marginalisation because
it gives marginalised people a forum to speak up, obtain pertinent information, and engage in
public conversation. The aim of the study was to identify and examine the role of community
radio in empowering the marginalised communities in a multicultural society like ours. This
study adopted the development media theory, using qualitative methodology while secondary
data was utilised. Other academics’ studies, as well as press articles served as sources. The
study concludes that community radio is considered a very important aspect in rural areas and
plays an active role in rural development. It helps cater for the information needs of the
marginalised society in a multicultural society. In addition, community radio could be used as
a tool to empower the marginalised or underprivileged and speak out against discrimination
and social injustices in society. The study recommended that community radios should ensure
access and participation, diversity, independence and locality. This is to make sure that
members of the marginalised groups can express their problems and difficulties via the station.