Al-Hikmah University Journal

The continuous existence of human beings as ordained by God is through reproductive ability of man and by extension living things."Abiro" is a 30 minute Yoruba phone-in programme of Harmony F.M. Idofian which comes on air every Thursday to expose, sensitise and educate women on reproductive healthcare with the aim of reducing maternal and infant mortality to the barest minimum. This study examined the influence of "Abiro" reproductive health programme on knowledge of registered pregnant women in Ilorin West Local Government Public Hospitals. The purpose of the study is to find out the extent to which registered pregnant women in Ilorin attribute their reproductive health awareness and knowledge to exposure to the "Abiro" radio programme. The study was anchored on Health Belief Model and Uses and Gratification Theory respectively. Survey method was conducted using structured questionnaires to collect quantitative data from the respondents. Total of 369 respondents served as the sample of the study. The result showed that majority of the respondents attested to the crucial role the programme played in improving the knowledge of pregnant women, particularly in terms of preparing for delivery. Also, the study highlights the collective willingness of registered pregnant women to actively participate in community efforts to support and promote the "Abiro" radio programme. The study concluded with the reaffirmation of pivotal role of community-oriented radio programs in educating and empowering vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, with essential health information. It also recommended that stakeholders should enhance their efforts to engage with registered pregnant women who are not currently listening to the "Abiro" radio programme such as tailoring programme content to specific demographics and conducting awareness campaigns to promote the programme's benefits.