DAᶜWAH PROGRAMMES ON RADIO STATIONS IN YORUBA COMMUNITIES: IMPACTS AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

Despite the varied approaches of some Muslim scholars, which result in diverse outcomes, the role of radio, among 
other electronic media, in conveying Islamic messages to contemporary society remains undeniable. Radio Daᶜwah 
has emerged as a crucial tool in modern Islamic propagation, offering a wider and more accessible platform to reach 
the public. This shift has significantly eased the burden of traditional face-to-face Daᶜwah activities, which were 
often limited in scope and time. This study appraises the impact of Daᶜwah programmes broadcasted on selected 
radio stations, such as Agidigbo FM, Eko FM, and Radio Kwara, on Muslims in Yoruba communities. These 
programmes have demonstrated notable social, economic, and educational influences, contributing to the moral and 
spiritual development of their listeners. However, the challenges facing Daᶜwah programmes on radio stations are 
substantial. Among the most pressing are inadequate funding, disunity among Islamic scholars, and competition 
from secular and Christian programming. Additionally, bias in the media, where Islam is sometimes misrepresented 
or criticized, further complicates the effectiveness of Islamic broadcasts. The study reveals that these challenges, if 
not addressed, can hinder the potential of Daᶜwah programmes to promote Islam accurately and unify the Muslim 
community. The importance of this study lies in its exploration of how radio, as a mass communication tool, has 
revolutionized the dissemination of Islamic teachings in Yoruba communities. By evaluating the impact and 
challenges of Daᶜwah programmes, this research provides insights into how Islamic scholars and media practitioners 
can collaborate to enhance the role of radio in spreading the message of Islam. Furthermore, the study emphasizes 
the need for strategic improvements in the organization, funding, and delivery of Daᶜwah content, ultimately 
contributing to the promotion of peaceful coexistence and religious harmony in Nigeria.