Background of the study
Urbanization in Nigeria has spurred significant linguistic transformations, particularly in Nigerian English as spoken by professionals in Lagos. Rapid urban growth, increased migration, and exposure to global media have contributed to notable shifts in language use. This study investigates how urbanization influences syntactic variation among Lagos professionals, reflecting broader societal changes (Akinola, 2023). Urban settings often serve as melting pots for diverse linguistic practices, resulting in innovative syntactic forms that deviate from traditional models. The research focuses on variations such as sentence length, word order, and the incorporation of non-standard grammatical structures. Recent findings suggest that urban professionals are at the forefront of these syntactic changes, adapting their language to meet the demands of a dynamic work environment (Olatunji, 2024). Data collected through interviews and discourse analysis indicates that urbanization encourages a more flexible approach to syntax, fostering creativity and efficiency in communication (Ibrahim, 2025). The study situates these developments within the context of globalization and technological advancement, highlighting the interplay between urban life and linguistic innovation. By understanding these patterns, the research aims to contribute to both sociolinguistic theory and practical language planning initiatives.
Statement of the problem
Although urbanization is known to influence language variation, the specific syntactic changes in Nigerian English among Lagos professionals remain underexplored. Existing research has largely focused on lexical innovations, neglecting the syntactic dimension of language change. Preliminary evidence suggests that the professional milieu in Lagos is reshaping sentence structures, potentially affecting clarity and comprehension. This study seeks to document and analyze these variations systematically. The problem lies in the scarcity of detailed syntactic analyses that capture the impact of urbanization on Nigerian English, making it difficult to assess the broader implications for professional communication and identity. Addressing this gap is essential for developing targeted language policies and educational programs that reflect contemporary usage patterns.
Objectives of the study
Research questions
Significance of the study
The study offers insights into the evolving nature of Nigerian English in an urban setting, informing both linguistic theory and practical communication strategies. Its findings will be useful for educators, policymakers, and professionals seeking to adapt to language changes brought by urbanization (Olufemi, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to syntactic variation in Nigerian English among Lagos professionals. It does not cover other language features or professional groups outside Lagos.
Definitions of terms
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study...
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