This is a survey study. A sample of 116 was purposely drawn from a population of rural dwellers to x-ray the impact of the media in dissemination information on COVID-19 pandemic. The paper anchors on Knowledge Gap and Media Ecology Theories. The primary aim was to assess the awareness level of rural dwellers while determining some levels of compliance with government health dictates. The study submits that WhatsApp, Facebook and Opera news are rendering front line media services among the semi-literate and above. But traditional media were more potent among the illiterate. The study reveals there is a high awareness of COVID-19. The rural people are also conversant with some issues relating to COVID-19 but unaware of other matters such as self-isolation and self-distancing. For instance, all respondents confirm having heard of face mask and sanitizer. The paper also notes some differentials (gap) among the rural people in terms level of awareness of COVID-19 pandemic terminology. The semi-illiterate and above were more conversant with the terminology more than the illiterates. This aspect of the result is hypothetically explained in the level of new media dependency, literacy level and income. The study reinforces the role of the media in national development. Traditional sources include information from opinion leaders. The study, therefore, upholds the continuing importance of opinion leaders in rural development. The paper consequently recommends that governments and change agents take advantage of the possibilities inherent in the new media and traditional media in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic and similar development communication campaigns.