NJOMACS

This study examined the contribution of Radio Benue's Kwagh-hir and Obatoha programmes to the preservation and revitalisation of Tiv and Idoma cultural heritage in Benue State, Nigeria. The study adopted a qualitative-dominant mixed-methods design involving questionnaire surveys, key informant interviews, and content analysis of selected programme episodes. A sample of 400 respondents was selected through stratified and simple random sampling, while twelve key informants were purposively selected based on their expertise in indigenous broadcasting and cultural preservation. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, whereas qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings revealed that the programmes significantly promote indigenous languages, oral traditions, folklore, traditional values, and cultural identity among listeners. The study further established that audience participation through discussions and feedback contributes to intergenerational cultural transmission. Despite these achievements, inadequate funding, declining youth listenership, increasing competition from digital media, and limited institutional support threaten programme sustainability. The study concludes that indigenous-language broadcasting remains an important instrument for safeguarding cultural heritage and strengthening ethnolinguistic identity. It recommends improved funding, digital adaptation, youth-oriented programming, and stronger collaboration between broadcasting organisations, educational institutions, and cultural stakeholders to enhance the sustainability and impact of indigenous broadcasting.