Celebrating Omalicha Radio, 91.1 Fm, A Voice For Development

By Tony Onyima*

Omalicha Radio 91.1 FM in Owerri, a beacon of independent development broadcasting, will mark its first anniversary on Friday, September 20, 2024. Ms. Angela Agoawike, a seasoned journalist and editor, founded the station, which has become a critical platform for community empowerment and long-term development, particularly in Owerri and beyond.
As we approach this milestone, it is appropriate to reflect on the station’s accomplishments and the role it continues to play in the landscape of communication, community development, and critical divide bridging.

Omalicha Radio was created to be more than just a traditional radio station; it was intended to be a catalyst for change. Through its programming, it gives voice to the voiceless, addressing issues of underdevelopment and inequality while instilling hope. It aims to empower communities by providing them with important information about health, education, agriculture, energy, and the environment. This emphasis on development journalism has given it a distinct voice in the crowded media landscape.

The upcoming anniversary lecture, titled Empowering Communities, Bridging the Energy Divide for Sustainable Development: The Role of Radio, emphasises the station’s mission. The topic is timely and profound, addressing one of the world’s most pressing issues—the energy divide. Millions of people in Africa still lack access to reliable energy, stifling development and perpetuating poverty. By emphasising how radio can help bridge this gap, the station demonstrates its dedication to being a force for social good.

The selection of speakers for the event reflects the event’s calibre and significance. The event will be chaired by Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, the first female mass communication professor in Sub-Saharan Africa and Deputy Vice Chancellor of Paul University, Awka. Her pioneering career in media and academia makes her an ideal candidate to lead such a discussion. Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers Organisation, will also deliver the keynote speech. His knowledge of energy issues across the continent adds valuable depth to the discussion, emphasising the intersection of media, energy, and development.

The importance of Omalicha Radio cannot be overstated. In just one year, it has created a space where the pressing needs of communities can be discussed openly and deeply. From amplifying grassroots voices to holding leaders accountable, the station has demonstrated how important independent media is in a functioning democracy.

Furthermore, its emphasis on sustainability is strongly aligned with current global efforts to combat climate change and promote renewable energy. Omalicha Radio has become a focal point for discussions about clean energy adoption, agricultural innovation, and educational reforms thanks to partnerships with civil society organisations and other development stakeholders. By doing so, it has bridged the information gap, providing communities with the tools they need to make sound decisions.

As the station enters its second year, the future looks even more promising. Omalicha Radio will undoubtedly continue to be a driving force in community empowerment. In a world fraught with complex challenges, it exemplifies how local media can have a global impact by shaping narratives about sustainable development and cultivating an informed, engaged populace.

In commemorating this milestone, we honour not only Ms. Angela Agoawike’s vision, but also the station’s dedication to serving as a lifeline for development in Nigeria and beyond. Omalicha Radio’s journey has only just begun, but the impact will be felt for generations to come.