AN ASSESSMENT OF LAFIYA DOLE RADIO MAIDUGURI IN PROMOTING PEACE AND COUNTERING VIOLENT EXTREMISM IN BORNO STATE

This study examined the role of Lafiya Dole Radio Maiduguri in promoting peace and countering violent extremism in Borno State. The objectives were to identify the communication strategies used by the station, assess their effectiveness, examine the challenges faced, and determine audience perception of its peacebuilding role. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised residents of Maiduguri Metropolis, and a sample size of 400 respondents was selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Findings revealed that 90.5% of respondents were aware of the station’s peace programmes, while 75.3% could recall specific peace messages. A majority (71.3%) confirmed clear understanding of the messages. About 87.5% agreed that Lafiya Dole Radio promotes peace and unity, while 53.5% reported that the programmes changed their views on violent extremism. In addition, 65% of respondents were encouraged to participate in peace-related activities, and 75.3% expressed strong trust in the station. Major challenges identified include weak signal coverage and the need for more youth-focused and trauma-healing programmes. The study concludes that Lafiya Dole Radio Maiduguri plays a significant and effective role in peacebuilding and counter-extremism in Borno State. It recommends improved signal coverage, increased multilingual and youth-centred programming, and stronger collaboration with religious and traditional leaders for greater impact