Abstract:
Maternal health seeking behaviour remains a persistent challenge in Sokoto State, Nigeria, where low utilisation of antenatal and skilled birth services continues to contribute to poor maternal cosequencs Existing studies have mainly focused on structural health system factors, with limited attention to the role of indigenous language communication and culturally grounded digital media. This study examines the role of Hausa digital storytelling in promoting maternal health seeking behaviour in Sokoto State. The study is anchored on Narrative Paradigm Theory and Diffusion of Innovations Theory and adopts a qualitative research design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and digital content analysis across selected Local Government Areas in Sokoto State. Thematic analysis was used to interpret findings. Results indicate that Hausa digital storytelling enhances maternal health awareness, improves comprehension of health messages, and positively influences antenatal care attendance and facility-based delivery decisions. However, challenges such as limited digital access, misinformation and low digital literacy constrain its effectiveness. The study identifies a key research gap in the limited empirical focus on how indigenous language digital storytelling influences maternal health seeking behaviour in northern Nigeria. It concludes that integrating Hausa language storytelling into digital health communication offers a culturally relevant and effective strategy for improving maternal health outcomes in Sokoto State.
Keywords: Behaviour change; Digital storytelling; Hausa language; Maternal health.
DOI: 10.36349/djhs.2026.v04i01.011
author/Abubakar Mohammed, PhD and Sakina Muhammad Wasagu
journal/Dundaye JOHS, July 2026
