THE ROLE OF BROADCAST MEDIA IN ERADICATING COMMUNICABLE DISEASE IN MUBI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ADAMAWA STATE.

Communicable diseases continue to pose a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in vulnerable regions such as Mubi in Adamawa State. This study explores the role of broadcast media specifically NAS FM MUBI in the prevention and control of communicable diseases. The research examines how the station’s health-focused programs contribute to awareness creation, behavioural change, and community responsiveness to diseases such as malaria, cholera, and COVID-19. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates surveys, in-depth interviews, and content analysis of relevant NAS FM MUBI broadcasts to assess the station’s influence on public knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices. The findings reveal that NAS FM MUBI serves as a critical platform for disseminating timely and culturally relevant health information, thereby enhancing community understanding of disease transmission and prevention. However, the study also identifies several constraints including limited resources, inconsistent audience access, and infrastructural challenges that affect the station’s capacity to achieve optimal health communication outcomes. Based on these insights, the study proposes practical recommendations to strengthen NAS FM MUBI’s communication strategies, improve audience reach, and enhance community engagement in disease prevention initiatives. Overall, the research underscores the vital contribution of local broadcast media as an accessible, trusted, and cost-effective tool for advancing public health interventions in resource-limited settings.