This study examines the impact of radio phone-in programmes on civic engagement among youths in Akure and Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. Radio remains one of the most accessible and participatory media for fostering democratic discourse and youth inclusion in governance. Anchored in the Uses and Gratification Theory, Agenda-Setting Theory, and Public Sphere Theory, the study explores how interactive radio broadcasting influences youth awareness, participation, and civic involvement. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 400 respondents aged 18–30, selected via multistage sampling. Findings reveal that youths exhibit high levels of exposure and active participation in phone-in programmes, engaging through calls, text messages, and social media. Such programmes were found to significantly enhance civic awareness, political confidence, and willingness to participate in governance. Discussions centred on corruption, education, youth empowerment, and community development generated the highest engagement, while programmes broadcast in local languages were perceived as more inclusive and relatable. Despite challenges such as limited airtime, network constraints, and presenter bias, respondents demonstrated strong motivation to participate in civic discourse. The study concludes that radio phone-in programmes serve as vital tools for democratic communication, amplifying youth voices and strengthening participatory governance. It recommends the expansion of youth-centred, issue-based, and linguistically inclusive programmes to deepen civic consciousness and democratic participation among Nigerian youths.
Ifedayo et al. (2024) studied this question.