An investigation of text normalization techniques for Nigerian Pidgin in online forums
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Background of the Study
Text normalization is a critical preprocessing step in natural language processing that converts non-standard text into a standardized form. Nigerian Pidgin, widely used in online forums, exhibits significant variability in spelling, punctuation, and stylistic conventions due to its informal nature and lack of codification. Researchers (Okeke, 2023) have highlighted that these variations complicate automated processing and hinder accurate language analysis. Recent advancements in computational linguistics have introduced rule-based and machine learning–driven normalization techniques that aim to address these issues. Studies (Adejumo, 2024) suggest that hybrid approaches combining statistical methods with linguistic heuristics offer promising results in reducing noise and standardizing text. However, the peculiarities of Nigerian Pidgin—such as frequent code-switching with English and the influence of regional dialects—present additional challenges. Recent research (Eze, 2025) emphasizes the importance of tailored normalization techniques that respect the language’s expressive richness while enhancing its usability in downstream NLP tasks. This study investigates various text normalization techniques applied to Nigerian Pidgin in online forums to evaluate their effectiveness, understand the challenges posed by the language’s variability, and propose enhancements for more robust preprocessing pipelines.
Statement of the Problem
Despite numerous advances, current text normalization techniques often fall short when applied to Nigerian Pidgin due to its non-standard orthography and frequent code-switching (Okeke, 2023). This leads to suboptimal performance in subsequent language processing tasks, such as sentiment analysis and machine translation. The lack of large, annotated corpora for Nigerian Pidgin further complicates the development and evaluation of normalization algorithms (Adejumo, 2024). Consequently, online forum data remains noisy and inconsistent, adversely affecting research outcomes and application development. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving automated processing of Nigerian Pidgin and ensuring that digital tools can accurately interpret and utilize user-generated content.
Objectives of the Study
- To evaluate existing text normalization techniques for Nigerian Pidgin in online forums.
- To identify specific challenges posed by non-standard language features and code-switching.
- To propose hybrid methods that enhance normalization accuracy for Nigerian Pidgin.
Research Questions
- How effective are current normalization techniques in processing Nigerian Pidgin texts?
- What linguistic challenges impede normalization in Nigerian Pidgin?
- How can hybrid normalization methods improve processing outcomes?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it addresses a major obstacle in processing Nigerian Pidgin texts, thereby enhancing the performance of downstream NLP applications. By identifying and overcoming normalization challenges, the research will contribute to more accurate sentiment analysis, translation, and content moderation in digital forums. The outcomes will benefit computational linguists, developers, and social scientists interested in Nigerian Pidgin, ultimately supporting improved digital communication and language preservation.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses exclusively on text normalization techniques for Nigerian Pidgin as used in online forums. It does not cover other preprocessing tasks or languages.
Definitions of Terms
- Text Normalization: The process of converting text to a standard form.
- Nigerian Pidgin: A creole language widely used in Nigeria, characterized by non-standardized grammar and spelling.
- Code-Switching: The practice of alternating between languages or dialects in conversation.
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