My Teenage Radio Affair: A Journey from Skepticism to Passion -By Abdullahi Adda’u Turawa

As a teenager, I had a peculiar habit that often left my friends baffled and my parents concerned. While most of my peers were engrossed in the latest trends, social gatherings, and video games, I had an unwavering devotion to a small, pocket-sized khibo analog radio. To some, it may have seemed like a peculiar obsession, but to me, it was an essential part of my life.

The moment that marked the beginning of my radio affair dates back to my primary school years. Each morning, as the first rays of sunlight pierced through my bedroom window, I would reach for that trusty radio and carefully tune it to my father’s station of choice: BBC Hausa, VOA Hausa, DW (Deutsche Welle) – and later, RFI Hausa Service. Little did I know that this seemingly routine act would eventually shape my future and instill in me a passion for journalism.

In those early mornings, the voices that resonated from the radio waves were more than just news anchors. They were storytellers, chroniclers of events both near and far. The world unfolded before my young ears, and I was captivated by the power of words. As I listened to the rich tapestry of international news, my mind began to wander, and my curiosity was piqued. I yearned to understand the intricacies of journalism, to be the one behind the microphone bringing stories to life.

My journey into radio-listening was not without its challenges. Friends often questioned my choice, dismissing it as a waste of time. They couldn’t fathom why I would willingly interrupt my daily routine to huddle around a small radio when there were more “entertaining” options available. Yet, I remained steadfast, finding solace and inspiration in the world of radio.

It was in those moments of dedicated listening that I discovered the beauty of diverse perspectives. The international broadcasts exposed me to different cultures, viewpoints, and languages, expanding my horizons beyond my small hometown. I was no longer confined by the limitations of geography; I was a citizen of the world, connected by the airwaves.
Fast forward to the present day, and the world of media has evolved dramatically.

The advent of new technologies and the internet have granted us the ability to stream any station of our choice, transcending the boundaries of traditional radio. While I now have access to a wealth of digital content at my fingertips, my heart still holds a special place for that khibo analog radio.

Today, as I pursue a career in journalism, I can’t help but reflect on the invaluable role that those early mornings with the radio played in shaping my path. My teenage obsession with international radio news has transformed into a lifelong passion for storytelling and reporting. I now understand that my dedication was never about being “serious” with life; it was about cultivating a genuine interest and love for something that would ultimately define my purpose.

My teenage years were marked by a unique devotion to listening to international radio news, a passion that many around me didn’t quite comprehend. However, it was through this unusual hobby that I discovered my love for journalism and storytelling. The radio, with its timeless charm, introduced me to a world beyond my own, inspiring me to pursue a career that now allows me to give back and pay forward the inspiration it provided. So, to those who may have doubted my teenage radio affair, I say this: sometimes, the most unconventional passions lead to the most fulfilling journeys.

Abdullahi Adda’u Turawa, ANIPR, Zaria, Nigeria