Indigenous Language Radio Programme and Station Preference Among Residents of Uyo Local Government Area

This work aimed to examine indigenous language radio programmes and station preference in Uyo Local Government Area. Cultural Imperialism Theory by Schiller and the Uses and Gratification Theory by Blumler and Katz were the theoretical frameworks used in the study. The research design adopted for this study was the descriptive survey research design. The population for this study was 1,329,000 which comprised all residents of Uyo Local Government Area. The sample size for the study was 120 respondents drawn from the 5 major roads in Uyo local government area which include; Abak Road, Aka Road, Oron Road, Ikot Ekpene Road and Nwaniba Road. 10 of these respondents were radio professionals while 110 made up the residents of Uyo. The sampling technique adopted for this study was the simple random sampling technique. A questionnaire was the main instrument for data collection, carefully selected from the research questions and objectives of the study. The data gathered were exhaustively described using the explanation building analysis which explains the similarities and differences of viewpoints. Findings from the study revealed that the major factor that influences the use of indigenous language by radio stations is inclusiveness; the feelings and attitude of residents of Uyo towards indigenous language radio programmes is positive. Also, it found that Sports Broadcast on Passion FM, hosted by Sports Sailor is the most preferred indigenous language radio programme by resident of Uyo LGA and the major benefit of indigenous language programmes broadcast is the increase in accessibility to programmes for individuals with limited English language proficiency. Finally, the study revealed that the major challenge faced in indigenous language broadcast on radio is that not every listener understands the language. Also, that if stations are mandated by policy, through the NBC to allocate more time daily to indigenous language programmes, the future of indigenous languages in Nigeria might not be bleak. The study recommended amongst others that to accord our indigenous languages the pride of place they deserve, existing language policies in Nigeria, including constitutional provision on language use in conducting government business, which favour the use of English language, must be reviewed.