A STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF AMULUDUN FM RADIO STATION ON THE RURAL DEVELOPMENT OF MONIYA

Abstract This study investigated the impact of Amuludun FM Station on rural development in Moniya, Oyo State. The objectives were to examine the role of the station in community mobilization, information dissemination, cultural promotion, and grassroots development. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected using a self-developed instrument titled Community Members’ View on Amuludun FM Questionnaire (CMVCRQ). A total of 400 respondents participated in the study, and their responses were analyzed using frequency counts and percentage scores. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents owned radios (69.25%) and had access to broadcast signals (80.25%), with radio serving primarily educational purposes (65%). Most respondents affirmed that Amuludun FM benefits their communities (75%) and is important to rural development (90% agreed/strongly agreed). The station was also acknowledged for mobilizing people (80%), promoting culture (75%), and presenting developmental needs to government (99%). However, concerns were raised about excessive focus on government and political activities at the expense of rural development issues. Despite these limitations, the overwhelming majority of respondents (85.25%) expressed a strong desire for the continuous presence of Amuludun FM in their area, underscoring its relevance to grassroots growth. The study concluded that Amuludun FM serves as a veritable tool for education, mobilization, and rural development, while also fostering government-community engagement. It recommended that programming should prioritize grassroots needs and local languages to maximize developmental impact in rural communities..