Digital Advocacy Inclusivity and Public Participation in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria: Fostering Responsible Engagement for Underserved Communities
Abstract
This study examined digital advocacy inclusivity and public participation in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria: fostering responsible engagement for underserved communities. The participatory communication theory was anchored in this study. This study adopted the pragmatist research philosophy. The population of the study comprised adult residents of Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, estimated at 352,285 persons based on the National Population Commission (NPC, 2025) projection. A sample size of 400 respondents was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula (1967). The study employed a multi-stage sampling technique and data were collected through structured questionnaires, while key informant interviews (KIIs). The method of data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (frequencies, percentages, and regression analysis) with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 27), while qualitative data from interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically to identify emerging patterns and explanations. The findings revealed that digital inclusivity required improved connectivity, affordable access, and the integration of local communication systems to ensure equitable participation. The study concluded that genuine civic participation cannot thrive without equitable access to digital infrastructure, affordable internet connectivity, and inclusive communication systems. The study recommended that Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Ministry of Science and Technology, expand broadband infrastructure and provide affordable internet access to underserved communities in Yenagoa to promote equitable digital participation.
Keywords
Digital Advocacy, Inclusivity, Public Participation, Responsible Engagement, Underserved Communities
Citations
IRE Journals:
Bufumoh, Akpoebi Alex (PhD), Eke, Chigozi (PhD) "Digital Advocacy Inclusivity and Public Participation in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria: Fostering Responsible Engagement for Underserved Communities" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 5 2025 Page 368-381
IEEE:
Bufumoh, Akpoebi Alex (PhD), Eke, Chigozi (PhD)
"Digital Advocacy Inclusivity and Public Participation in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria: Fostering Responsible Engagement for Underserved Communities" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(5)
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