World Radio Day: Stakeholders Reaffirm Radio’s Relevance in Digital Age

…As RATTAWU call for ethical AI use and capacity building for broadcasters

Radio has been described as a unique and dependable medium that cuts across social classes and literacy levels, with an affordability and intimacy that make it widely trusted.

The Olubunmi Oni, represented by the Director of Career Management Service, Mrs. Adebukola Akinwale, made this known at the 2026 World Radio Day celebration organised by the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter.

The event, led by the Chairman of RATTAWU in the state, Mr. Kehinde Olayade, was held at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) RATTAWU Hall, Basorun, Ibadan.

Mrs. Oni noted that radio continues to inform, educate and entertain the public, stressing that dedication and professionalism in the sector drive governance and promote unity in Oyo State.

“Radio remains a unique and dependable channel that cuts across classes and literacy levels. Its affordability and intimacy make it a trusted medium for all,” she said. AI Can Only Support, Not Replace Radio – Experts Delivering a lecture titled.

“Radio and Artificial Intelligence (AI)”, former Zonal Director of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Mrs. Bolatito Joseph, highlighted the uniqueness of radio as the mouthpiece of the people.

Mrs. Joseph explained that the impact of Artificial Intelligence on radio is significant, noting that AI builds on the medium’s past developmental strides through creativity, quality content, thorough research and talent discovery.

“Artificial Intelligence is already shaping broadcasting, but it must be driven by creativity, research and talent. These remain key to sustaining quality radio content,” she said.

In his welcome address, Mr. Olayade explained that every February 13 is set aside by the UNESCO to celebrate World Radio Day, underscoring the importance of the medium globally.

“While AI can support innovations in radio broadcasting, the human touch remains vital and irreplaceable,” he stated.

Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Olufemi Oguntoyinbo, urged journalists to prioritise factual reporting capable of engaging audiences and building trust.

He cautioned against the spread of misinformation, emphasizing that credibility remains the cornerstone of journalism.

“Journalists must focus on fact-based reporting that builds trust and credibility. Avoid spreading misinformation, as the audience depends on us for verified and reliable news,” Oguntoyinbo advised.

Earlier in his welcome address, The Chairman Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers (RATTAWU) Oyo State Council, Comrade Kehinde Alayade said AI is fast becoming part of everyday life and is already influencing the broadcast industry, from news gathering and audio production to audience engagement and digital broadcasting.

“Artificial Intelligence is already influencing how radio content is created and delivered.

However, technology should support human creativity and not replace it. Radio is built on trust, emotion, cultural understanding and human connection values that no machine can fully replicate,” he stated.

He emphasised that AI must be used responsibly and ethically in ways that strengthen professionalism and protect jobs in the media

Comrade Alayade reaffirmed the commitment of RATTAWU to the welfare of its members, Alayade said the union would continue to advocate for proper training, fair working conditions and policies that ensure new technologies benefit both workers and society.

“As a union, we remain committed to safeguarding the welfare, rights and dignity of media workers. We will continue to push for policies that ensure technologies like AI are introduced in ways that protect jobs and promote professionalism,” he said.

The Chairman also appealed to well-meaning Nigerians to support the Oyo State Council of the union, revealing that the council urgently needs a bus to enhance its mobility and improve service delivery to members.

“I call on well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the State Council. We are in dire need of a bus to enhance our mobility in delivering quality and effective service to our members,” he appealed.

He further urged government, broadcast owners and regulators to invest in continuous training and capacity building for radio professionals to ensure they are not left behind in the era of rapid technological change.

Comrade Alayade maintained that radio remains the most accessible medium, particularly for rural communities, the elderly and those without access to digital platforms.

“In times of crisis, elections and public enlightenment, radio continues to stand as a reliable companion of the people. This relevance must be protected and strengthened,” he added.

He called on broadcasters to uphold professionalism, accuracy and ethical standards, while promoting unity within the union and solidarity across the media industry.

Dignitaries at the event included the Zonal Director of FRCN, Mr. Olufemi Fulani, the Chairperson of BCOS, Mrs. Dotun Olaitan, and other union members.

The highlight of the celebration was the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals who have contributed to the stability and development of radio in their various fields.