The Catholic Diocese of Makurdi has officially launched Radio Maria-Nigeria 93.5fm, a new radio station dedicated to serving the people of Benue State and beyond.
Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, who inaugurated the station, emphasised its role in protecting the rights of the vulnerable and providing a platform for evangelization through mass, prayers, rosary, Christian formation, news, entertainment, education, health, and social and cultural programs.
He commended the Abuja Archdiocesan Director of Communications and Head of the Catholic Television of Nigeria, Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Alumuku, for his initiative in establishing the radio station, which began 27 years ago.
“I feel so good. It’s a mission accomplished, because, when I left this Diocese in 1992 to study Communications in Rome, the idea was for me to come back and help the diocese but after my studies, I was requested to stay back and work at the Vatican Radio.
“I guess because listening to me speak on Vatican Radio, my Bishop then, Most Rev. Athanasius Usuh began to understand in a better way the impact of radio on society. It was then that the Bishop’s idea of establishing a radio for the diocese began.”
Fr. Alumuku explained that the idea for Radio Maria started in 1996 while he was working at the Vatican Radio. He believes the station will offer a holistic programming experience, addressing not only religious matters but also education, culture, politics, and social life.
“The NBC law allows that only 20 percent of programming in a day can be religious. So, we are going to remain at that level. And 20 percent of 24 hours is a little over 2 hours and if you do that of Catechism, of evangelism for two hours every day, that’s a whole lot already.
“So, it’s not purely religious. Radio Maria’s programming is holistic. It’s about education and culture, it’s about the sufferings of the people. It’s about the IDPs and the people in IDP Camps. It’s about politics, it’s about religion, it’s about faith as well. It’s about social life, the life of the Church, the life of the people, the market, and economy and all will be part and parcel of Radio Maria”.
He emphasised that Radio Maria has a comparative advantage over other stations due to its religious focus and full digital equipment, allowing access to various platforms across the globe.
Fr. Alumuku also revealed that 11 Catholic Dioceses across Nigeria have secured licences to establish Radio Maria stations. The financial model of Radio Maria relies on donations from supporters, and over 500 million Naira was spent on establishing the Makurdi station.
Deacon Michael Wielath, Vice President of Radio Maria-Germany, commended the Diocese of Makurdi for its efforts and expressed hope that the people of Benue State will benefit from the station’s diverse programming.
The inauguration of Radio Maria-Nigeria is a significant development for the Catholic Church in Benue State and promises to provide a valuable resource for the community.
