NJOMACS

This study examined the deployment of multimedia technologies in broadcast news delivery for sustenance of audience interests and participation in Nigeria. The work focused on XL 106.9 FM, a private radio broadcast outfit based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Some objectives of the study included: to find out the different multimedia platforms deployed in XL106.9FM; to ascertain whether the broadcast journalists and news presenters at XL106.9 FM have found the deployment of multimedia technologies functional. The study adopted mixed research method involving both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data analysed from the questionnaire and in-depth interview showed that XL 106.9FM has deployed multimedia technologies reasonably in its news programme delivery. The study also found out that the deployment of multimedia technologies has enhanced audience participation and interest in the news programme of the station and also eased newsgathering, production and delivery. The study concluded that the major challenges of multimedia deployment at XL106.9 FM had been epileptic power supply, unpredictable network connections and lapses on the part of news personnel. The authors therefore recommended that the management of XL106.9 FM should organise regular training to update the staff members on news beats on the evolving technologies so as to eliminate ignorance and complacency.