Background of the Study
Nigerian Pidgin, widely used in urban centers, has evolved dramatically over the past decades due to rapid urbanization, globalization, and digital communication. Diachronic discourse analysis reveals shifts in conversational structures, politeness strategies, and pragmatic markers across generations (Adeleke, 2023). Older generations exhibit discourse patterns rooted in traditional, face-to-face communication, while younger speakers increasingly incorporate digital idioms, abbreviations, and code-switching with English. These variations reflect broader societal changes and the influence of technology on language (Okoro, 2024). Researchers have used corpora of spoken and written NP from different time periods to document these changes, yet comprehensive analyses remain scarce. By comparing historical and contemporary discourse, scholars can gain insights into how urbanization and technology have transformed communication in Nigerian Pidgin (Nwosu, 2025). This study examines diachronic discourse patterns in NP across urban generations, focusing on shifts in narrative style, discourse markers, and conversational norms.
Statement of the Problem
Although Nigerian Pidgin has undergone notable discourse changes, there is a lack of systematic diachronic studies that analyze these shifts across urban generations. Most existing research focuses on either historical or contemporary data in isolation, resulting in a fragmented understanding of discourse evolution (Adeleke, 2023). This gap limits our ability to comprehend the full impact of digital communication and urbanization on NP discourse, thereby affecting language planning and educational initiatives (Okoro, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it offers a comprehensive diachronic analysis of Nigerian Pidgin discourse, revealing the influence of urban and digital trends on language use. The findings will inform language policy, education, and media, supporting the preservation of NP’s dynamic identity while guiding future research on language evolution.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on urban Nigerian Pidgin discourse and excludes rural speech communities and non-digital communication contexts.
Definitions of Terms
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