AKSU Journal of Communication Research (AJCR)

AN ASSESSMENT OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES ADOPTED BY THE NIGER DELTA DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (NDDC) IN AKWA IBOM STATE

Author:  NTIENSE SUNDAY SIMON, DR. PHILOMENA EFFIONG UMOREN & DR. BASSEY EFFIONG EYOH

Abstract
This research examined the Development Communication Strategies employed by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Akwa Ibom State: The study aimed at identifying the communication strategies adopted by NDDC for the development of communities in Akwa Ibom State, investigating their effectiveness, ascertaining the media channels deployed most and the challenges faced by NDDC in undertaking specific development projects in Akwa Ibom State. The survey research design was employed in this study. The population of the study was 4,979,000 according to the 2022 National Population Projection for Akwa Ibom State. The method of data collection was the administration of questionnaire on selected respondents and the face to face interview of officials of NDDC. It made use of descriptive analysis approach based on primary and secondary data collection. Based on the findings of the study, it was revealed that NDDC has been proactive in engaging the citizens about its programmes, activities, policies and plans. The commission evolved activities to educate, create awareness, build relationship and increase community participation in its programmes through the various media strategies such as press releases, conduct of press conferences, press tours, writing feature articles, rejoinders, granting interviews, hosting of meetings, public lectures and sponsorship of social events to drive down its development communication strategies in Akwa Ibom State. It was recommended that NDDC should invest more in its Public Affairs Unit, embark on more Public Relations activities to sustain its information and public education campaigns.