Examination of the Role of Community Radio in Conflict Resolution in Plateau State

In conflict-prone regions of Nigeria, community radio has been proposed as a tool for facilitating inter-ethnic dialogue and supporting peace communication, yet its operational effectiveness in this role in Plateau State has received limited empirical documentation. This study examined the role of community and state radio broadcasting in conflict resolution efforts in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. A qualitative exploratory design was adopted, combining semi-structured interviews with 15 community radio programme producers, peace advocates, and community leaders in Jos North and Barkin Ladi LGAs with focus group discussions involving 48 community members from Christian and Muslim communities affected by historic inter-religious conflict. Thematic analysis was applied. Results revealed that radio programmes specifically designed for inter-community dialogue had aired on Radio Plateau for at least three years but reached limited audiences due to scheduling in off-peak hours. Community members from both religious backgrounds expressed willingness to engage with radio-based reconciliation content when presented in local languages including Hausa, Berom, and Ngas. Radio was perceived as a safer medium for expressing inter-group sentiments than face-to-face forums by 73.8 percent of focus group participants. Absence of dedicated funding for peace programming was the most commonly cited barrier by programme producers. The study recommends that Radio Plateau and international peace communication funders co-develop a sustained, prime-time interfaith dialogue programming initiative for Plateau State communities.

Keywords: community radio, conflict resolution, peace communication, Plateau State, interfaith dialogue