By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Geri FM 95.5, Ilorin, Dr. Mahmud Abduraheem, has advocated for the use of communication to promote grassroots development in Kwara State.
Abduraheem stated this on Saturday in Ilorin while speaking at the Inaugural Meeting of Reconstituted Programmes Advisory Committee in Ilorin.
He spoke on the theme: “The Role of Community Radio in Grassroots Development and Cultural Rejuvenation”.
He explained that the the radio station was established five years ago with the mandate to give voice to the people of Ilorin Emirate and also provide an avenue for cultural rejuvenation.
“Radio is not just a sound, it is a trust and a mirror of the community and the drum that calls people to unity and progress.
“As a community radio, our strength lies in how well we reflect the aspirations, values and culture of our people,” he said.
According to him, the media space is evolving and listeners expect more depth, relevance and impact.
Abduraheem therefore appealed to the committee to give guidance in ensuring that content educates,. enlightens, entertain and unites the communities.
He advised the committee to also uphold the values of Ilorin Emirate including peace, scholarship, tolerance and culture.
“Ensure our programme address real grassroots needs including health, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment,” he said.
The media expert reminded them to also potential the local language, histzans heritage without division.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Programme Advisory Committee, Alhaji Femi Ibrahim noted that the Geri FM Station has already become a household name in the State.
He observed that the committee comprised of expert in academia and media practitioners who who are professionals, while advising them to share ideas that can elevate the FM Station to greater heights.
NAN reports that some of the committee members includes Hajia Amina Sanni, the former Head of Multimedia of NAN, Prof. Razaq Adisa, the Head of Department of Mass Communication, University of Ilorin.
Others includes Hajia Hadiza Sanni, the former Director of Digital Media of Voice of Nigeria (VON) and Prof. Saudat AbdulBaki, the Dean of Faculty of Communication and Information Science of University of Ilorin among others.