An evaluation of historical language contact between Hausa and Fulani in Northern Nigeria
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Hausa and Fulani have shared a long history of linguistic and cultural contact in Northern Nigeria. Historically, the migration of the Fulani people into Hausaland, particularly during the formation of the Sokoto Caliphate, led to extensive language contact and eventual integration. This prolonged interaction resulted in mutual lexical borrowing, convergence in syntactic structures, and the emergence of a hybrid socio-political identity—the Hausa–Fulani (Adejumo, 2023). Oral traditions, historical records, and early written documents indicate that this contact influenced not only vocabulary but also pragmatic features and prosody (Ibrahim, 2024). Social, economic, and religious factors contributed to language convergence, especially in urban centers where intermarriage and trade were common. Moreover, the influence of Islam and subsequent administrative policies reinforced a shared linguistic identity. Despite the wealth of anecdotal evidence, systematic studies using diachronic corpora are limited. The need for a comprehensive analysis that examines historical language contact phenomena is essential for understanding the evolution of Hausa and Fulani and for informing contemporary language policies (Usman, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although the historical contact between Hausa and Fulani is widely recognized, there is a lack of systematic, corpus-based studies that analyze its linguistic impact. Existing research tends to focus on sociopolitical implications while neglecting detailed phonological, syntactic, and lexical changes resulting from prolonged contact (Adejumo, 2023). This gap hinders our ability to understand how contact has shaped the modern forms of both languages and limits the development of effective language preservation and education strategies (Ibrahim, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
- To identify and analyze linguistic features resulting from Hausa–Fulani contact.
- To examine the socio-cultural factors that facilitated language convergence.
- To assess the impact of contact on the evolution of both languages.
Research Questions
- What linguistic features characterize Hausa–Fulani language contact?
- Which socio-cultural factors have most influenced this convergence?
- How has historical contact shaped modern Hausa and Fulani forms?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a comprehensive analysis of language contact, shedding light on the mechanisms behind linguistic convergence. The findings will inform language policy, educational practices, and preservation efforts in Northern Nigeria, benefiting linguists, historians, and policymakers.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on historical language contact between Hausa and Fulani in Northern Nigeria, analyzing available historical documents and corpora. It does not extend to modern sociolinguistic factors beyond the historical period.
Definitions of Terms
- Language Contact: Interaction between speakers of different languages leading to mutual influence.
- Hausa–Fulani: A hybrid socio-political identity resulting from extensive language contact.
- Diachronic Analysis: The study of language change over time.
Related Project Materials
The Role of Mobile Advertising in Increasing Voter Registration in Michika LGA, Adamawa State
Background of the Study
Voter registration is a critical step in the democratic process, as it ensures citizens’ part...
An evaluation of farmer credit assessment methods in rural banking: a case study of United Bank for Africa
Background of the Study
Accurate credit assessment is vital in determining the creditworthiness of farmer...
The Effect of Regulatory Changes on Profitability in the Nigerian Insurance Sector: A Case Study of AXA Mansard
Background of the Study
The insurance sector is a critical component of Nigeria’s financial services industry, con...
Implementation of Quantum Computing for Enhancing Smart Grid Technology at Transmission Company of Nigeria, Abuja
Background of the Study
Smart grids represent the next generation of electrical power systems, offering advanced monitor...
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AND THE EFFECT ON TEACHING OF BIOLOGY IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL ABA NORTH LGA ABIA STATE
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to inclusive education and the effect on teaching of biology...
An Evaluation of the Challenges of Intergovernmental Relations in Mubi North LGA, Adamawa State: A Case Study of Fiscal Federalism
Background of the Study
Intergovernmental relations (IGR) are the interactions between different levels of government&md...
THE INFLUENCE OF LOGISTICS OUTSOURCING ON SUPPLY CHAIN PERFORMANCE
Abstract: THE INFLUENCE OF LOGISTICS OUTSOURCING ON SUPPLY CHAIN PERFORMANCE
This study examines the influence of logistics outsourcing o...
THE IMPACT OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION ON CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
ABSTRACT: The impact of early childhood education on critical thinking ski...
EVALUATION OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE INDUSTRIES AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE ECONOMIC GROWTH OF NIGERIA (1986 – 2010)
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY.
In recent time, the fortune of small scale and medium scale Industries attract...
An evaluation of underwater archaeology in coastal communities of Bonny Local Government Area, Rivers State
Background of the Study:
Underwater archaeology in Bonny has emerged as a vital field in understanding coa...
