An examination of derivational morphology in Hausa language among traditional storytellers in Kano
- Project Research
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- NGN 5000
Background of the study
Traditional storytelling in Kano is an age-old practice that relies heavily on derivational morphology to enrich narratives and convey cultural wisdom. In Hausa language, storytellers creatively employ derivational processes—such as affixation and compounding—to generate novel lexical items that encapsulate complex cultural values (Aminu, 2023). This study investigates the derivational morphology used by traditional storytellers, analyzing how they transform base words into expressive forms that resonate with their audiences. Storytelling performances provide a dynamic context where linguistic creativity meets cultural transmission. Field recordings and narrative analyses reveal that derivational morphology in Hausa is not only a tool for word formation but also an essential element of cultural identity and memory (Okeke, 2024). The research examines patterns of prefixation and suffixation that produce metaphorical and emotive language. This investigation highlights the balance between preserving traditional morphological forms and adapting to contemporary storytelling techniques, ensuring that cultural heritage is maintained while language evolves (Uche, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the critical role of derivational morphology in Hausa storytelling, there is scant systematic research on the specific processes employed by traditional storytellers in Kano. Observations indicate that while traditional derivational patterns remain robust, modern influences may be prompting subtle shifts that are not well documented (Aminu, 2023). This research gap hampers efforts to preserve the full richness of Hausa narrative traditions and impedes the development of targeted educational materials for cultural preservation (Okeke, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
To document derivational morphological patterns in Hausa storytelling.
To analyze the role of affixation in narrative expression.
To assess the influence of modern trends on traditional practices.
Research questions:
What derivational processes are predominantly used by storytellers?
How do affixation patterns contribute to the expressiveness of narratives?
In what ways are traditional patterns being modified?
Research Hypotheses:
Traditional derivational morphology remains central in storytelling.
Modern influences have led to measurable adaptations in affixation.
Effective storytelling is linked to the creative use of derivation.
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant because it documents the derivational strategies that underpin Hausa storytelling in Kano, shedding light on how traditional narratives are constructed and maintained. The findings will benefit educators, cultural preservationists, and linguists by providing a deeper understanding of how derivational morphology contributes to cultural continuity and narrative artistry (Aminu, 2023; Uche, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to traditional storytelling contexts in Kano and focuses solely on derivational morphological processes.
Definitions of terms:
Derivational Morphology: The process of creating new words through affixation.
Storytellers: Individuals who orally transmit cultural narratives.
Hausa: A language spoken predominantly in Northern Nigeria.
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