International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has long remained a significant global public health challenge. In response, sustained efforts involving medical advancements and social mobilisation have been deployed to curb its spread through the promotion of preventive measures. However, recent signs of resurgence in parts of Nigeria amid a growing sense of complacency due to earlier successes have raised fresh concerns. In Ebonyi State, the State Action Committee on HIV/AIDS (EBOSACA) reported, in the last quarters of 2025, a resurgence of HIV/AIDS in three Local Government Areas, with Abakaliki LGA recording the highest prevalence. This trend is particularly troubling given the continued dissemination of HIV/AIDS awareness messages through radio broadcasts in the state. Although numerous studies have examined media campaigns on HIV/AIDS, there remains a paucity of research assessing the effectiveness of radio health messages in influencing preventive behaviours within specific local contexts such as Abakaliki LGA. Objectives: This study investigated the level of knowledge and application of radio messages on preventive measures against HIV/AIDS among residents of Abakaliki Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Method: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population comprised adult residents of Abakaliki LGA. Using the 2006 Census data, the projected population of residents aged 12 years and above was estimated at approximately 269,000 as of December 31, 2025. Using the Australian online sample size calculator, a sample size of 400 was determined. A multi-stage sampling technique with a clustering approach was employed, and a 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire served as the instrument for data collection. Results: The findings indicate that respondents possess significant knowledge of radio messages on HIV/AIDS preventive measures. However, they rarely apply these measures. Furthermore, the belief that HIV/AIDS prevalence has significantly declined in Ebonyi State-based on government announcements-emerged as a major inhibitor to the effectiveness of radio campaigns against the resurgence of the disease.
Unique Contribution: This study advances existing knowledge on media campaigns against HIV/AIDS by identifying key inhibitors to the translation of knowledge into practice during periods of disease resurgence.
Conclusion: Radio messages on HIV/AIDS preventive measures in Abakaliki LGA are not fully effective, as residents demonstrate low levels of adoption of the recommended practices.
Key Recommendation: The Ebonyi State Government and relevant development agencies, such as WHO, should adopt a more strategic approach in communicating progress made in HIV/AIDS control. Information on reduction rates should be carefully managed until there is reasonable certainty that the risk of resurgence has been effectively mitigated.