Abstract:
This study examines the potential of community journalism to foster rural-urban integration in Isoko North Local Government Area, Delta State. The study is anchored on the Integrated Development theory, Rural-Urban Continuum theory, and Development Media theory. This research employed a survey design with a sample size of 300 residents from 13 wards. Findings revealed that residents are aware of community journalism, which has become popular even among rural dwellers. Community journalism can help establish a healthy relationship between the government and the governed, create awareness about government policies and programs, and promote rural development. The findings of this study have implications for policy and practice, highlighting the need for a supportive environment for community journalism to flourish. By promoting community journalism, we can improve the lives of rural dwellers. The study concludes that development issues and rural issues are prominent in community journalism. If properly harnessed, community journalism can be a catalyst for rural –urban integration in Isoko North local government area. The study recommends that government should create an enabling environment for community journalism to thrive, decentralize development, and leverage on digital platforms to reach wider audiences. Additionally, establishing a radio/TV station in Isoko North is necessary to bridge the information gap and promote community journalism as a catalyst for rural-urban integration.
Keywords: Community journalism, rural-urban integration, development, rural development.
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