Effects of radio messages on family planning usage among rural women in Ogun state Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of radio messages on family planning usage among rural women in Ogun State, Nigeria. Anchored on the Agenda-Setting Theory, the research explores how exposure to radio programs influences awareness, perceptions, and adoption of contraceptive methods. A qualitative research design was employed, using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 24 rural market women across two local government areas. Data were analyzed thematically. Findings reveal that radio is the most accessible and trusted medium for disseminating family planning information, with most participants reporting first learning about contraceptives through radio programs. Frequent exposure enhanced awareness, reshaped attitudes, and motivated adoption of methods such as injectable contraceptives, intrauterine devices, and condoms. Programs featuring medical professionals were found to be particularly persuasive, while dramatized formats were valued for their entertainment and educational appeal. Despite these gains, cultural resistance, misconceptions, and personal inhibitions continue to limit full utilization of family planning services. The study concludes that radio remains an effective platform for reproductive health communication in rural Nigeria but recommends more diverse programming, sustained collaboration with health stakeholders, and complementary community outreach to reinforce behavioral change. The study suggests that mixed method of both qualitative and quantitative research method should be employed with the use of questionnaire to complement the Focus Group Discussion and Interview to study related concept for more generalization.