Lecture Notes on History of Broadcasting

Course: Foundation of Broadcasting and Film (MCM 101)

Lecturer: Dr Khadijat Adedeji-Olona

Date: Monday 20th January, 2025

Introduction

The history of broadcasting is rich and dynamic as it reflects advancements in technology and

societal changes. From its origins in the late 19th century to its evolution into a global

phenomenon, broadcasting has had a great influence on culture, politics, and communication.

The history of radio broadcasting is intertwined with its role as a powerful tool for mass

communication. Its advantages over other forms of mass media include:

Widespread Accessibility: Reaches a large audience, overcoming space, time, and illiteracy

barriers.

Immediacy: Delivers timely messages with a sense of urgency.

Cost-Effectiveness: Low operational costs after the initial investment in equipment.

Interactivity: Enables real-time communication with listeners, fostering engagement.

Flexibility: Allows for program changes in response to current events or urgent issues.

Persuasive Power: Influences and shapes public opinion on various social and cultural issues.

Community Building: Encourages group listening and follow-up discussion

Global History of Broadcasting

Early Beginnings and Technological Innovations

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Broadcasting has its roots in the late 19th century with key scientific breakthroughs. James Clerk

Maxwell (1846) laid the theoretical foundation for electromagnetic wave propagation.

Heinrich Rudolf Hertz (1888) later established that radio waves could be transmitted and

received in a laboratory setting. Nikola Tesla (1892) and Guglielmo Marconi (1895) advanced

these experiments further, with Marconi achieving the first wireless transmission over a distance

of 1.5 miles. The sinking of the Titanic in 1912 highlighted the urgent need for effective wireless

communication, which accelerated the development of radio technology.

Development of Radio Broadcasting

The United States saw significant growth in radio broadcasting when KDKA Pittsburgh began

commercial broadcasts in 1920, featuring live music and news. By the mid-1920s, networks such

as the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) emerged, leading to more organised broadcasting.

In the United Kingdom, the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) was founded in 1922 and

eventually became the British Broadcasting Corporation in 1927, a pioneer in structured and public

broadcasting.

In the 21st century, radio adapted to digital technologies, including internet radio, podcasts, and

streaming platforms. Despite competition from other media, radio remains a relevant source of

entertainment and information. Media convergence has allowed radio to integrate with social

media and new digital tools, thereby enhancing audience engagement.

Radio has proved to be a powerful medium during global conflicts and political movements.

During the Cold War, it facilitated propaganda and cultural exchanges. In colonised regions, it

amplified anti-colonial voices, fostering unity among marginalised populations and creating a

platform for cultural and political resistance.

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Radio Broadcasting in Nigeria

Radio broadcasting in Nigeria began in 1932 with the introduction of the British Empire Service,

which used re-diffusion boxes to relay BBC programmes. This marked the beginning of radio as a

tool for public enlightenment under British colonial rule. In 1951, the Nigerian Broadcasting

Service (NBS) was established to provide locally relevant programming.

In 1957, the NBS transitioned into the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), creating a

formal structure for national broadcasting. Radio became an important medium for public

enlightenment, especially in rural areas, and played a crucial role in promoting national unity

during Nigeria’s early years of independence.

The deregulation of broadcasting in 1992 under the Babangida administration allowed private

ownership of radio stations, leading to the emergence of stations such as Raypower FM. This

policy resulted in increased competition and a proliferation of radio stations across the country.

However, deregulation also led to concerns about content quality, including the rise of hate speech

and profit-driven programming.

Despite the growth of commercial radio, Nigeria has struggled to establish community radio,

which is essential for promoting ethnic and linguistic diversity. Regulatory challenges have

hindered the development of community radio, limiting its potential to represent the voices of

marginalised communities and promote grassroots development.

The Impact of Radio Broadcasting

Cultural Impact

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Radio has played a significant role in promoting Nigerian music, culture, and indigenous

languages. It has served as a tool for cultural preservation and fostered national unity by providing

a shared platform for diverse audiences.

Political Influence

During Nigeria’s struggle for independence, radio was instrumental in disseminating nationalist

ideas and fostering political mobilisation. In the post-independence era, it became a medium for

public education and democratic engagement.

Challenges

Broadcasting in Nigeria faces challenges such as regulatory hurdles, limited rural access, and the
rise of misinformation in deregulated environments. The rapid growth of private radio stations has
also led to concerns about content quality and ethical broadcasting practices.

Opportunities

The digital transformation of radio presents new opportunities for content delivery through
platforms such as podcasts, live streaming, and mobile applications. Additionally, community
radio provides great potential for grassroots engagement and cultural representation, particularly
in Nigeria’s diverse socio-cultural landscape.

Revision Questions

1. Who were the key figures in the early development of radio broadcasting, and what were
their contributions?

2. How did the colonial government utilise radio broadcasting in Nigeria?

3. What role did deregulation play in shaping Nigeria’s radio broadcasting landscape?

Further Reading

1. Onabajo, O. (2004). Introduction to Broadcasting.