THE ROLE OF THE BROADCAST MEDIA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the role of the broadcast media in the management of environmental health issues in Enugu State, Nigeria. Although the mass media generally have a distinct presence in our homes today – providing us with a wealth of information on a multitude of channels – they are equally well established as parts of the social structures and world of values around us.  This makes it imperative that we take an interest in the kinds of values the media promote in their work. When the media are working well to help curb and prevent the incidences of wrong environmental health behaviour, they employ agenda setting strategy to reinforce values and practices that would reduce the phenomenon. In Enugu urban, Nigeria, the broadcast media in the discharge of their information, education socialization, sensitization, agenda setting and mobilization functions, contributes immensely in not only creating awareness in the society, but also in condemning practices that debase the environment. This study therefore focuses on the role of the broadcast media in the management of environmental health in order to prevent or reduce health’s problem in Enugu State. The research methodology adopted is the survey research method. Questionnaire was constructed and administered to the representative sample of the study. The study found that the broadcast media and Nigerian Television Authority, Enugu in particular have been effective in its campaign geared towards enlightening the public on environmental health issues. It was recommended that regular information dissemination, public education and enlightenment and up-to-date sources of information and effective communication about environmental health issues are of paramount importance and should be maintained by the media.  Also, government and stakeholders in media industry should ensure specialized training for disseminators of environmental health information.