This study examines the role of radio broadcasting in revitalizing indigenous languages in selected broadcast media stations in South East Nigeria. It focuses on how radio programmes delivered in indigenous languages contribute to language preservation, cultural promotion, and the strengthening of community identity, particularly in the context of the gradual decline of indigenous languages such as Igbo due to globalization, modernization, and the dominance of foreign languages in formal and informal communication. The study also explores broadcast staff perceptions of the effectiveness of indigenous language programming and identifies the key challenges limiting its success in radio stations across the region. Grounded in Agenda Setting Theory and Uses and Gratification Theory, the research explains how media content influences public attention to language issues and how audiences engage with indigenous language programmes based on their communication needs. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with data collected through structured questionnaires administered to staff of selected government-owned and private radio stations in South East Nigeria. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequency counts and percentages. Findings indicate that radio remains a powerful platform for indigenous language promotion through news, cultural programmes, music, and discussions in Igbo. However, such programmes receive limited airtime compared to English broadcasts. The study further identifies constraints such as inadequate funding, absence of strong language policies, shortage of trained personnel, and competition from digital media as key barriers to effective indigenous language broadcasting. It concludes that radio broadcasting remains a vital instrument for sustaining indigenous languages in South East Nigeria and recommends stronger government support, improved policy frameworks, capacity building for broadcasters, and the integration of modern broadcasting technologies to enhance language preservation efforts.
Emmanuel Afamefuna Uzoma (Mon,) studied this question.