Post-Performance Assessment of Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Communication Strategies for Adherence to COVID-19 Safety Protocols among Non-Literates in Southwest Nigeria
Abstract
This study assesses the post-performance of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) communication strategies in raising awareness and promoting adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols among individuals with low literacy levels in Southwest Nigeria. Quantitative and Qualitative data were collected through surveys (comprising 420 respondents) and 6 focus group discussion sessions (involving 54 participants) respectively in three selected states (Lagos, Osun and Oyo). The results show high level of awareness and knowledge of COVID-19. Also, results show that more than half (51.67 %) of the respondents did not adhere to COVID-19 safety protocol due to distrust in government. Findings further reveal insights into the accessibility, comprehensibility, and cultural appropriateness of communication materials and channels used by NCDC, as well as the effectiveness of community engagement approaches in fostering behavior change among non-literates. Results from the multinomial regression analysis show that age, sex, and information from radio and community health workers significantly predicted the probability of adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols (p<0.05). The study recommends that during pandemic, health communicators should prioritize culturally sensitive communication, train and incorporate influencers that are regarded within the community. Government should foster trust among the population by empathizing with the needs of the population to make public health campaigns effective.