NJOMACS

This study evaluated the communication strategies employed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in managing the COVID-19 pandemic in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria. The aim of the study was to assess the communication strategies used in combating misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Grounded in Protective Motivation Theory (PMT), the study utilized a qualitative survey design, collecting data via questionnaire from 371 NCDC staff across eight departments. Findings revealed that NCDC effectively used diverse channels such as town criers, radio, television, social media, and more to disseminate information and curb the spread of the virus. Mass media proved significant in countering misinformation, though challenges like poor internet connectivity, illiteracy, and conflicting government policies hindered efforts. The findings also underscored the significance of mass media in containing as well as informing citizen about curative measures of COVID-19. The study recommends multilingual messaging and improved infrastructure for future health crises.