Influence of Radio Messages on Adoption of COVID-19 Preventive Measures among Residents of Owerri Municipality using Hot FM

Abstract

The researchers examined the impact of radio messages on adoption of COVID-19 preventive
measures among residents of Owerri Municipality using Hot FM. A cross-sectional survey
research method was adopted for this study. The study was restricted to Hot FM Owerri; its
messages through news, jingles and other public enlightenment programmes during the pandemic
outbreak in 2019. The researchers adopted agenda setting theory. The researchers used a total
population of 5600, who were majorly traders and artisans. A sample of 360 residents of Owerri
Municipality was used for this study derived using Roger Wimmer sample size calculator. The
simple random sampling technique was used to select respondents for the study. Copies of
questionnaire were developed and used to obtain data for the study. The findings showed that the
level of radio listenership in Owerri municipality is high (86%). It also found that (57%) of the
respondents often heard messages, public announcements and jingles aired on Hot FM on
measures to curtail the spread of COVID-19. These messages to a large extent (65%) helpfully
influenced the adoption of COVID-19 preventive measures among residents of Owerri
Municipality using Hot FM.