Background of the Study
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become a cornerstone of development communication, particularly in empowering youth through education, skills acquisition, and economic opportunities. In Lokoja Local Government Area (LGA), Kogi State, the integration of ICT into development initiatives has the potential to address issues such as unemployment, digital illiteracy, and social exclusion. ICT tools such as mobile applications, online learning platforms, and social media facilitate access to information, enhance skill development, and foster entrepreneurship among young people (Bello & Ahmed, 2023; Yusuf et al., 2024). Research underscores the importance of ICT-enabled communication in promoting youth empowerment, particularly when combined with participatory approaches and localized content (Okafor & Musa, 2025). This study investigates the role of ICT in development communication for youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA, emphasizing its impact on education, employment, and social inclusion.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Youth in Lokoja LGA face significant challenges, including limited access to quality education, high unemployment rates, and a lack of opportunities for socio-economic advancement. While ICT has the potential to address these issues, its adoption in development communication remains inconsistent and underexplored (Ahmed & Bello, 2024). Barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, digital illiteracy, and socio-economic inequalities hinder the effective use of ICT for youth empowerment (Musa et al., 2023). This study assesses the role of ICT in development communication, exploring strategies to maximize its impact on youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To examine the role of ICT in promoting development communication for youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA.
To identify the challenges and opportunities associated with using ICT for youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA.
To evaluate the impact of ICT-enabled communication on education, employment, and social inclusion among youth in Lokoja LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
What role does ICT play in promoting development communication for youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA?
What are the challenges and opportunities associated with using ICT for youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA?
What is the impact of ICT-enabled communication on education, employment, and social inclusion among youth in Lokoja LGA?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
ICT significantly promotes development communication for youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA.
Certain challenges and opportunities influence the effective use of ICT for youth empowerment in Lokoja LGA.
ICT-enabled communication positively impacts education, employment, and social inclusion among youth in Lokoja LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study highlights the transformative potential of ICT in addressing youth challenges, providing insights for policymakers, educators, and development practitioners. By exploring the role of ICT in development communication, the research contributes to the discourse on digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. The findings are expected to guide the design and implementation of ICT-driven programs that address the unique needs of youth in Lokoja LGA.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is focused on Lokoja Local Government Area, Kogi State, examining the role of ICT in development communication for youth empowerment.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Digital tools and platforms used for communication, education, and skill development.
Development Communication: Strategic use of communication to promote social and economic development.
Youth Empowerment: Enhancing the capacity of young people to contribute to and benefit from socio-economic development.
Lokoja Local Government Area: A region in Kogi State, Nigeria, with diverse challenges related to youth development.
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Chapter One: Introduction