Hadi Kai Radio: Promoting Peace Through Information — An Interview with Abdullahi Mustapha

 Report by hauwa Ibrahim 

Mr. Abdullahi Mustapha, a representative of Hadi Kai Radio, has shed light on the station’s operations during a recent visit.

Speaking on the station’s purpose, Mustapha explained that Hadi Kai was established by the Nigerian Army to promote peace and counter extremist propaganda. "The aim of the establishment is to promote peace and disseminate information," he said. "The station’s name reflects the operational focus of the army at different times."

He traced the evolution of the station's name: it was initially called Zama Lafiya — meaning "to restore peace" — under former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Buratai. It was later renamed Lafiya Dole by Lieutenant General Atayiru, before finally adopting the name Hadi Kai.

According to Mustapha, extremist groups had been using media to incite, recruit, and radicalize the public. In response, Hadi Kai Radio was launched as part of the army’s kinetic efforts to counter misinformation, educate citizens about the dangers of extremism, and encourage peacebuilding.

On editorial independence, Mustapha noted that the Nigerian Army retains final decision-making authority. "The army makes all final editorial decisions," he said. Despite this, he stressed that the station remains committed to accuracy, balance, and fairness in its reporting.

Regarding political coverage, he clarified that Hadi Kai generally avoids active political involvement. However, during elections, the station ensures balanced reporting by contacting all political parties for comment. "We focus on fairness and impartiality," Mustapha said, "and take the opportunity to enlighten the public on political matters."

He also highlighted that the station operates under the guidelines of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Code, ensuring that its staff adhere to professional ethics in their assignments.