FUNCTIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SYSTEM ARE EASILY DISCERNIBLE. FIRSTLY IT MOBILIZES THE PEOPLE AT THE GRASSROOTS LEVEL TOWARD COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND NATIONAL CONSCIOUSNESS. NO SERIOUS MASS-ORIENTED PROGRAMME EVER SUCCEEDS WITHOUT THE ACTIVE INVOL

ABSTRACT This research work is on the “Appraisal of Traditional Media As a Tool For Effective Rural Development ( a study of Ibaji Community, Kogi State). A total of 100 respondents were randomly selected from among the population of Ibaji Community of Kogi State. The data generated were subjected to statistical analysis. The conclusion of this study led us to the realization and development when employed strategically to reach the rural populace. The study equally revealed that there are some hindrances of traditional media of communication which is largely due to bias against the traditional media in favour of more modern ones. Unfortunately, the study disclosed that there are no policies or projects among the Ibaji people to boost the use of traditional media of communication. It was recommended therefore that policies and projects and encourage the use of traditional media of communication be put in place by both the town authority and the government as this will help preserve and promote the culture of the people, storytelling, song, dance encouraged as these contain moral lessons that inspire the youth to greater heights.