DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AS A TOOL FOR ADVOCACY: A STUDY OF THE STOP OPEN DEFECATION ADVOCACY, SENSITIZATION AND ENLISTMENT PROGRAMME IN OSUN STATE

Abstract

Communication and development are connected. In order to achieve long-term benefits in any developmental effort, communication is absolutely crucial. In order to convey information, viewpoints, and views among the stakeholders, development communication attempts to build a two-way flow. Advocacy is all about persuading and influencing the public, but this cannot be done unless the communicators can clearly express their thoughts. This study set out to define development communication and identify its essential components in Nigeria. The study also looked into how development communication may be used to advocate the stop open defecation in Osun State, Nigeria. Results showed that the goal of the campaign to eradicate open defecation in Osun state was to promote healthy living by making sure that every home, school, and common areas like markets and parking lots have toilet facilities and are maintained clean and hygienic. This study also discovered that Osun state's campaign for stop open defecation used the Integrated Approach of development communication. As a result of the stop open defecation advocacy, the people of Osun state developed a stronger appetite and desire for a higher quality of life, which led to a shift in attitude and behavior and an improved quality of life.