Management of the newly established Benin-based radio station, OJ 106.3 FM, on Thursday said the station was founded to bridge the communication gap between Edo indigenes at home and those in the Diaspora through quality online broadcasting and storytelling.
The Chief Executive Officer of the station, Mrs Joy Olabisi Akpaida, disclosed this while introducing journalists to the station’s facilities in Benin City.
Akpaida, a former Head of Benin Centre of DAAR Communications, owners of AIT/Raypower, said the station was conceived to project Edo stories, culture, businesses and development narratives to audiences across the world.
She explained that the statelion would operate beyond conventional terrestrial broadcasting by maintaining a strong online presence that would allow Edo people in the Diaspora to remain connected with happenings back home.
According to her, “The vision is to bridge the gap between those at home and our people in the Diaspora. We want to tell the Edo story to those abroad and also bring their experiences, contributions and perspectives back home through our platform.”
She added: “A lot of our people outside the country are eager to stay connected with developments in Edo State, but there is limited credible and engaging content that truly reflects our identity, culture and aspirations. That is what OJ FM is coming to change.”
The broadcaster noted that the station would focus on quality programming, youth development and community-oriented content capable of promoting Edo State positively on the global stage.
Akpaida lamented that many broadcast stations have shifted attention from quality programming to profit-making, a trend she said has affected content standards in the industry.
“Over the years, many broadcast station owners have focused more on money than on the quality of programmes people are bringing on board. That has been a major concern for me,” she said.
She further explained that the station was designed to create opportunities for talented young broadcasters and content creators who may not have the financial capacity to secure airtime on conventional platforms.
“We want to give opportunities to young minds with creative and impactful ideas, whether they have money or not. What matters first is quality content,” she stated.
The CEO, however, clarified that sponsored programmes and advert-based content would still attract payment.
“Of course, eventually there will be payment for commercial content. If a programme comes with adverts or sponsorship, definitely there will be business arrangements,” she added.
Speaking on the sustainability of the station, Akpaida said management was exploring alternative revenue streams within the broadcasting industry beyond regular sponsored programmes.
“There are several other areas in broadcasting where revenue can be generated. We are looking into those areas while ensuring that quality content and credible news thrive both on radio and online,” she said.
