AUDIENCE PERCEPTION OF DANDAL KURA RADIO'S PEACEBUILDING PROGRAMMES IN MAIDUGURI

ABSTRACT This study examined the audience perception of Dandal Kura Radio’s peacebuilding programmes in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. The research was motivated by the crucial role of the media, particularly radio, in promoting peace, countering violent extremism, and fostering reconciliation in conflict-affected societies. Dandal Kura Radio was established to serve communities impacted by the Boko Haram insurgency, with the aim of disseminating counter-narratives, promoting peaceful coexistence, and supporting post-conflict recovery efforts in the Lake Chad region. Despite its relevance, there has been limited empirical assessment of how audiences perceive and engage with the station’s peace initiatives. The study adopted a mixed-method research design, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to ensure comprehensive data collection. The population consisted of residents of Maiduguri, including students, traders, religious leaders, civil servants, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). A total of 100 respondents participated in the survey, while 10 key informants were interviewed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics for the quantitative component and thematic analysis for the qualitative responses. Findings revealed that 85% of respondents were aware of Dandal Kura Radio and that a majority of them regularly listened to its peacebuilding programmes. The results also indicated that 65% of respondents perceived the programmes as effective in promoting peace, tolerance, and conflict resolution. Moreover, more than half of the listeners reported active engagement through call-ins and community discussions. However, some challenges were identified, including limited signal reach in rural areas, linguistic barriers, perceived political bias, and security concerns affecting open participation. The study concludes that Dandal Kura Radio plays a significant role in peacebuilding and conflict transformation in Maiduguri by shaping attitudes, promoting dialogue, and fostering reconciliation. Nonetheless, its impact can be enhanced by expanding coverage, increasing community participation, broadcasting in more local languages, and maintaining strict neutrality in reporting. The findings underscore the need for continued use of media as a strategic instrument for sustainable peacebuilding in Nigeria’s conflict-affected regions. Keywords: Dandal Kura Radio, Peacebuilding, Audience Perception, Media, Conflict Resolution, Maiduguri