ABSTRACT
This study seeks to investigate the audience perception of Radio Bayelsa programmes in Yenagoa Metropolis. Specifically, , it aims to identify the most popular radio programs among the residents of Yenagoa metropolis, determine the level of satisfaction with the content and quality, examine the factors that influence audience perception, assess the overall audience perception of Radio Bayelsa programs and recommend improvements based on the findings to enhance audience perception and engagement with Radio Bayelsa programs in the Yenagoa metropolis. This study used the survey research design, which is used to collect quantitative research data that is further used to investigate the variables, utilising the questionnaire instrument which was administered to 200 sample respondents. After analysing the data using series of frequency and percentage tables, the study found that that talk to Bayelsa, sound dynamic and pick a number are the most popular radio Bayelsa programmes among the respondents of Yenagoa Metropolis, Also, the satisfaction level of the audience with the content a d quality of the programmes is quite low. Therefore, factors like level of education, influence from family and friends, personality and religion are key to the perception of audience in Yenagoa Metropolis. Sequel to the findings above, the overall audience perception of Radio Bayelsa programmes is that of entertainment, religious, political and all inclusive. Therefore, it is recommended that With the impressive ratings radio have recorded with her programme, the two radio stations should further be used for development communication which will in turn further sensitise the public on other basic needs to sustain societal needs and peace. Also, the Ministry of communications and National Orientation Agency should make good use of community radio stations to further tell to the public national needs to foster more improved communal integration. Furthermore, Radio programmes should be designed to bring issues affecting the public to the audience of the government in a bid to foster development. Thus, the content and quality of the the radio programmes should be improved upon untiilisng modern technological tools to boast communication via radio. This calls for more government and private collaboration in making major investmens in the State's media houses. Therefore, ore community stakeholders’ engagement on the imperativeness of community building and media development. Keywords: Audience Perception, Yenagoa Metropolis, Radio Programmes
