Background of the study
Bilingualism, prevalent in Kaduna, profoundly affects the morphological processes of the Hausa language. In a bilingual context where Hausa coexists with dominant languages like English and Arabic, speakers often negotiate dual linguistic systems. This interaction creates an environment where traditional Hausa morphological rules are influenced by foreign language structures. Recent studies indicate that bilingualism may lead to the reanalysis of morpheme boundaries and novel affixation patterns (Abdullahi, 2023). In Kaduna, the educational system and media exposure foster a bilingual population whose language practices reflect both preservation of indigenous morphology and adaptation to external influences (Ibrahim, 2024). The study examines how bilingual speakers reconcile these differences by altering compounding, reduplication, and derivational processes. Furthermore, bilingualism often results in code-switching, which introduces morphological elements from one language into another. This dynamic interplay potentially reshapes the morphological landscape of Hausa, challenging traditional norms and prompting innovative word formation (Suleiman, 2025). By investigating these phenomena, the study aims to contribute to a broader understanding of how bilingualism influences morphological evolution and to provide insights into effective language policy and education in multilingual settings.
Statement of the problem
Although bilingualism is widespread in Kaduna, there is insufficient empirical research on its effect on Hausa morphological processes. Observations suggest that the coexistence of Hausa with other languages leads to restructured affixation and compounding rules, yet detailed studies quantifying these changes are lacking (Abdullahi, 2023). This research gap hinders the development of targeted educational strategies and language preservation initiatives. The impact of code-switching on morphological integrity remains ambiguous, complicating efforts to maintain traditional linguistic standards in bilingual contexts (Ibrahim, 2024). Without systematic investigation, educators and policymakers struggle to design curricula that accommodate bilingual influences while preserving indigenous morphological features (Suleiman, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
To assess the impact of bilingualism on Hausa morphological processes.
To identify changes in affixation, compounding, and reduplication due to bilingual exposure.
To evaluate the role of code-switching in morphological adaptation.
Research questions:
How does bilingualism affect traditional Hausa morphological structures?
What changes occur in word formation processes in bilingual speakers?
How does code-switching influence morphological boundaries in Hausa?
Research Hypotheses:
Bilingualism significantly alters Hausa morphological processes.
Bilingual speakers exhibit modified affixation and compounding patterns compared to monolingual speakers.
Code-switching contributes to the reanalysis of morpheme boundaries in Hausa.
Significance of the study:
This study is important as it elucidates the impact of bilingualism on Hausa morphology, informing educators and language planners in Kaduna. The findings will facilitate the development of strategies that balance bilingual influences with the preservation of traditional morphological structures (Abdullahi, 2023; Suleiman, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to examining the effect of bilingualism on morphological processes in Hausa in Kaduna. It focuses exclusively on morphological changes without addressing broader linguistic influences.
Definitions of terms:
Bilingualism: The ability to use two languages fluently.
Morphological Processes: The methods by which words are formed and structured.
Code-switching: The practice of alternating between two or more languages in conversation.
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
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