Background of the study
Compounding is a key morphological process in Nigerian Pidgin that allows speakers to create new lexical items by combining two or more words. This study evaluates the compounding processes in Nigerian Pidgin as used by urban populations in Lagos. Nigerian Pidgin is renowned for its flexibility and creativity, with compound words playing an essential role in its lexicon (Okoro, 2023). Urban contexts in Lagos provide a vibrant setting where diverse linguistic influences converge, leading to innovative compound formations. These compounds are not only functional but also serve as markers of cultural identity and social dynamics. Recent research has highlighted that compounding facilitates efficient communication by encapsulating complex ideas into single lexical units (Chima, 2024). This investigation employs corpus analysis of spoken and written Nigerian Pidgin, as well as interviews with urban speakers, to document the frequency, structure, and semantic functions of compound words. The study also explores the influence of digital media and interethnic contact on compounding patterns, contributing to a nuanced understanding of morphological innovation in Nigerian Pidgin (Ibrahim, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized importance of compounding in Nigerian Pidgin, there is limited systematic research on how urban influences in Lagos affect compound formation. Observations suggest that the dynamic urban environment leads to significant variation in compound structures, yet detailed analyses are lacking (Okoro, 2023). This gap hampers efforts to develop language teaching materials and preservation strategies for Nigerian Pidgin. The lack of comprehensive data on the frequency and types of compounds also limits our understanding of how modern socio-cultural factors reshape traditional compounding processes (Chima, 2024). Addressing this issue is crucial for capturing the evolving nature of Nigerian Pidgin’s lexicon and ensuring that innovative morphological forms are documented for future reference (Ibrahim, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
To document compound words in Nigerian Pidgin among urban populations in Lagos.
To analyze the structural and semantic characteristics of these compounds.
To assess the influence of urban socio-cultural factors on compound formation.
Research questions:
What are the predominant compounding patterns in Nigerian Pidgin?
How do urban influences affect the structure of compounds?
What role do digital media and interethnic interactions play in compound innovation?
Research Hypotheses:
Urban populations in Lagos exhibit diverse compounding patterns in Nigerian Pidgin.
Socio-cultural factors significantly influence compound formation.
Digital media exposure correlates with increased morphological creativity.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it sheds light on the compounding processes in Nigerian Pidgin, providing insights for linguists, educators, and language policymakers. The findings will support efforts to document and preserve the dynamic lexicon of Nigerian Pidgin (Okoro, 2023; Ibrahim, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to examining compounding processes in Nigerian Pidgin among urban populations in Lagos. It focuses solely on morphological aspects without addressing broader pragmatic or syntactic factors.
Definitions of terms:
Compounding: The process of combining two or more words to form a new word.
Nigerian Pidgin: A creole language widely spoken in Nigeria.
Urban Populations: Residents of urban areas, particularly Lagos.
Chapter One: Introduction
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