Skip to content
Abuja – A significant source of news for millions has gone silent following the VOA Hausa service shutdown. The popular Voice of America (VOA) Hausa radio service ceased broadcasting after a US presidential executive order issued on March 15. This order dissolved the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM), VOA’s parent organization, placing 1,300 global staff, including those at the Hausa service, on administrative leave. The abrupt VOA Hausa service shutdown leaves many listeners in northern Nigeria and neighboring countries searching for reliable news alternatives.
Listeners and Journalists React to Sudden Closure
The shutdown has prompted varied responses. Regular listeners like Barde Galadima expressed disappointment but have already started tuning into other stations. The disruption extends online, with the VOA Hausa website and podcasts remaining static since March 15. Journalists associated with the service shared their frustration. They recalled past challenges, like navigating perceptions during Nigeria’s military regimes, and highlighted their efforts to build a reputation for balanced reporting. VOA Hausa had become a trusted platform, known for engaging interviews with key figures, reaching millions of Hausa speakers daily.
Impact on Regional Media Freedom
The VOA Hausa service shutdown represents a blow to the media landscape across Hausa-speaking regions. As a widely respected source, VOA Hausa played a vital role in providing access to information and fostering media freedom. It offered a crucial platform for diverse perspectives. Its sudden absence creates a void for audiences who depended on its reporting. Uncertainty clouds the future of the service, raising questions about the potential impact of government policy shifts on international broadcasting and its role in supporting access to information globally. The legacy of VOA Hausa’s contribution to regional media remains significant.
