Influence of Radio Benue’s Kwagh-hirr and Obatoha Programmes on the Cultural Renaissance of the Tiv and Idoma People of Nigeria
Author(s): | Faith Onyeche Geoffrey |
Abstract: | Background: Cultural heritage is a vital element of societal identity, providing a link between the past and present, while shaping the future. In an era of rapid globalization, and increasing dominance of western media, indigenous media play an important role in safeguarding local cultures.
Objective: This research examined the impact of Radio Benue’s Kwagh-hirr and Obatoha programmes on the cultural renaissance of the Tiv and Idoma people of Benue State. These programmes are central in promoting traditional music, storytelling, language, and values. Method: The researcher relied on surveys, primary data were gathered through questionnaire administered to 400 sampled respondents within Makurdi metropolis, which is the state capital. This is to enable an easy and fair representation of the Tiv and Idoma people being researched. Results: Kwagh-hirr and Obatoha programmes serve as significant platforms for fostering cultural awareness and pride, particularly among the younger generations who may otherwise face cultural erosion due to globalization and urbanization. These programmes effectively promote traditional storytelling, music, language, values and community dialogue, acting as cultural repositories that strengthen communal bonds and identity. However, the study also identifies challenges, such as language barrier and inconsistent programming, which constrain their broader impact. Conclusion: By bridging generational and linguistic gaps, Kwagh-hirr and Obatoha exemplify how local media can serve as agents of cultural renaissance, continuity and resilience in a rapidly changing society. Unique Contributions: This study contributes valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers in the field of media, culture and community development. Key Recommendations: The research underscores the critical role of community-based media in cultural promotion and preservation, and recommends enhanced government and private sector support for sustaining such initiatives, and also an improvement on the consistency in programming as well as wider audience engagement. |
Keywords: | Radio Benue, Kwagh-hirr, Obatoha, Tiv, Idoma, cultural renaissance, heritage Nigeria |
Issue | IJSSAR Volume 2, Issue 4, December 2024 |
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Copyright | Copyright © 2024 Faith Onyeche Geoffrey ![]() This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. |
Journal Identifiers
eISSN: 3043-4459
pISSN: 3043-4467