Background of the Study
Digital rhetoric, characterized by the strategic use of language and visual elements in online communication, has dramatically reshaped discourse on Nigerian social media platforms. With the proliferation of digital technologies, users now engage in a dynamic interplay of text, image, and multimedia to construct meaning and persuade audiences (Adesanya, 2023). Nigerian social media environments, including platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, have become fertile grounds for the evolution of new discourse practices. Here, digital rhetoric manifests in the form of hashtags, memes, and viral narratives, reflecting both the immediacy and the democratization of public expression. Scholars argue that digital rhetoric not only alters the traditional modes of persuasion but also creates a participatory culture where users actively contribute to the construction of public opinion (Ogunleye, 2024). As digital rhetoric evolves, it challenges conventional linguistic norms while simultaneously fostering innovative communication practices. This study investigates how digital rhetoric influences discourse evolution, examining the rhetorical strategies deployed by users and their implications for public communication in Nigeria. The research emphasizes the importance of understanding these transformations in the context of cultural shifts and media convergence (Adesanya, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Although digital rhetoric is increasingly influential, there is a paucity of research on its specific impact on discourse evolution in Nigerian social media platforms. Existing studies tend to focus on general digital communication trends without delving into the nuanced rhetorical strategies that characterize Nigerian online interactions (Balogun, 2024). This research gap poses challenges for understanding how new digital practices reshape public discourse and influence societal perceptions. The study seeks to address these issues by examining the evolution of digital rhetoric and its effect on discourse patterns. In doing so, it aims to reveal how digital strategies are transforming language use and persuasion in online environments, thereby contributing to more effective communication research and practice.
Objectives of the Study
To analyze the rhetorical strategies employed on Nigerian social media platforms.
To examine the evolution of digital discourse in response to emerging technologies.
To assess the impact of digital rhetoric on public opinion formation.
Research Questions
What are the key digital rhetorical strategies observed on Nigerian social media?
How has digital rhetoric evolved in response to technological advancements?
What impact does digital rhetoric have on the construction of public discourse?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides insights into the transformative role of digital rhetoric in shaping discourse on Nigerian social media platforms. The findings will benefit communication scholars, digital marketers, and policymakers by elucidating how online rhetoric influences public opinion and cultural trends. By highlighting the evolution of digital discourse, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of modern communication practices and offers strategies for engaging audiences in an increasingly digital world (Adesanya, 2023; Ogunleye, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to examining the impact of digital rhetoric on discourse evolution within Nigerian social media platforms and does not consider traditional media channels.
Definitions of Terms
Digital Rhetoric: The art of persuasive communication using digital media.
Discourse Evolution: The transformation of language practices over time.
Social Media Platforms: Online applications where users create and share content.
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