THE EFFECT OF HEALTH BROADCASTING CAMPAIGNS IN PUBLIC HEALTH AWARENESS IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF “LET’S STOP CHOLERA TOGETHER” ON JAY FM, JOS, PLATEAU STATE
Abstract
Abstract
The study investigated the effect of health broadcasting campaigns on public health awareness in Nigeria, using “Let’s Stop Cholera Together” on Jay F.M Jos, Plateau State, as a case study. It aimed to assess the campaign’s impact on audiences in Jos, identify its communication strengths and weaknesses, and examine the role of Jay F.M in public health education. Guided by the Uses and Gratification Theory, the research employed a qualitative approach, utilizing focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with selected stakeholders of Jay F.M Jos.Findings revealed that the campaign had a significant positive impact on the people of Jos, notably improving their awareness and preventive behaviors toward cholera. The campaign’s key strengths included message clarity, the use of indigenous languages, and the diverse media formats employed. However, some weaknesses were also noted in its communication strategies. The study recommended that health campaigns like “Let’s Stop Cholera Together” should be continuous rather than limited to outbreak periods, as sustained broadcasting can help maintain awareness and prevent lapses in hygiene practices. It also urged Jay F.M and other local stations to dedicate more airtime to health-related content addressing communicable diseases such as cholera and malaria.
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