Genius Multidisciplinary International Journal
ISSN: 2971-7760  |  Vol. 8, No. 2

AUDIENCE PERCEPTION OF CONFLUENCE FM “HEALTH IS WEALTH” PROGRAMME ON DRUG ABUSE AMONG YOUTH IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

HUSSEINI M. KEDONOJO, MOHAMMED S. RABIU KIOR S. AKPEDE

Abstract

This study examined the role of the “Health is Wealth” radio programme on Confluence FM 94.0 in addressing drug abuse among youths in Kogi State, Nigeria. The study was guided by Perception Theory. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The population of the study comprised youths in Lokoja, Ankpa, and Anyigba, from which a sample of 386 respondents was drawn using multistage sampling techniques. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings revealed that the “Health is Wealth” programme enjoys a moderate level of listenership among youths in Kogi State. 75% respondents generally perceived the programme as informative, clear, and credible in addressing issues related to drug abuse. The study further found that the programme positively influenced respondents’ knowledge and attitudes towards drug abuse, encouraging preventive behaviours and discouraging substance use. However, the impact of the programme was constrained by challenges such as poor radio signal in some areas, irregular listenership, lack of awareness of broadcast time, and competing media content. The study concluded that radio remains a powerful tool for health communication and behaviour change among youths, particularly in addressing drug abuse. It recommended, among others, that Confluence FM 94.0 should improve programme scheduling, increase audience engagement through interactive sessions, and enhance publicity of the “Health is Wealth” programme to maximise its reach and effectiveness among young people in Kogi State.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23075466

Published: October 1, 2026

Journal: Genius Multidisciplinary International Journal

ISSN: 2971-7760

Volume: 8, Issue 2

Publisher: Genius Academy — Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nigeria