Abstract

Food security remains a main challenge in Nigeria, mostly in rural farming communities where insecurity, poverty, poor infrastructure, and limited access to technology hamper agricultural productivity. This study assessed the influence of Àgbẹ̀ Afokoṣọrọ̀, an agricultural development radio programme broadcast on Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation (OGBC), on food security in Ogun State. Anchored on the Social Responsibility Theory of the media, the research adopted a qualitative design using Key Informant Interviews (KII), In-depth Interviews (IDI), and Group Interviews (GI) with farmers, extension officers, and agricultural experts. Findings showed that rural farmers benefited significantly from the programme by gaining knowledge on improved farming practices, crop varieties, livestock rearing, and marketing strategies. However, challenges such as inadequate financing, weak market access, ecological differences, land policies, insecurity, poor radio signals, and cultural resistance to change limited the full utilisation of knowledge gained Despite these constraints, farmers reported improved yields, diversification into various agricultural practices, and better awareness of modern techniques. The study concludes that radio remains an indispensable medium for rural agricultural extension and development communication. Strengthening institutional support, improving farmer-market linkages, and enhancing rural infrastructure are recommended to maximise the impact of agricultural radio programmes on food security in Nigeria.