Evaluation of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria’s voter enlightenment programmes during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections

Abstract

Political literacy and active civic participation are imperative for the progress of any nation, emphasising the crucial role of mass media in empowering citizens with political knowledge. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria’s (FRCN) voter enlightenment programmes and their impact on the civic engagement of residents in the Abi Area Council, Cross River State, Nigeria during the 2023 general elections. Employing survey research method and purposive sampling techniques, the study is theoretically grounded in John Dalton's cognitive mobilisation theory. The research findings reveal a noteworthy listenership of FRCN's political programmes among residents of Abi LGA. Furthermore, the study establishes a correlation between FRCN's voter enlightenment programmes and the active participation of residents in the 2023 general elections. In conclusion, this research underscores the efficacy of media-driven political programmes in educating citizens about their crucial role in electoral processes. It however, recommends for the sustainability of FRCN political programmes in informing the public about electoral matters during general elections. And further recommends that FRCN programmes should be used to fostering civic engagement and as indispensable tool for continuous public education in Abi Local Government Area during and after elections.