Background of the Study
Cultural festivals in Nigeria are vibrant events that celebrate the country’s rich heritage through music, dance, and other forms of artistic expression. This study investigates the semantic networks that underpin the terminology used in Nigerian cultural festivals, focusing particularly on music and dance. Semantic networks refer to the interconnected meanings and associations among words, which in this context reflect historical traditions, social values, and contemporary influences (Ekwueme, 2023). Through an analysis of festival programs, interviews with cultural practitioners, and examination of media coverage, the research explores how specific terms are used to construct and convey cultural narratives. The study examines lexical items such as traditional dance names, musical instruments, and performance descriptors, and investigates how these terms evolve over time. It also considers the impact of globalization and digital media on the semantic evolution of festival terminology, highlighting the dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity (Ibrahim, 2024). The findings will contribute to our understanding of language as a tool for cultural expression and identity formation in the context of Nigerian festivals (Chinwe, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the cultural significance of music and dance terminology in Nigerian festivals, there is limited research on the semantic networks that support these terms. The lack of systematic analysis restricts our understanding of how meanings are constructed and transmitted during cultural events (Ekwueme, 2023). Inconsistent usage and rapid changes due to digital influence may lead to fragmentation of traditional meanings, thereby weakening cultural identity (Ibrahim, 2024). This research gap hinders effective preservation of indigenous terminology and impedes efforts to promote cultural continuity. This study aims to address these issues by mapping semantic networks in festival language and providing insights into the evolution of cultural discourse (Chinwe, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
To map the semantic networks of music and dance terminology in Nigerian cultural festivals.
To analyze the evolution of these terms in response to cultural and digital influences.
To propose strategies for preserving and promoting traditional festival terminology.
Research Questions:
What semantic associations characterize festival-related terminology?
How do digital influences affect the evolution of cultural terms?
What measures can preserve the integrity of indigenous terminology?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it explores the semantic networks in Nigerian cultural festivals, providing insights into how language shapes cultural identity and heritage. The findings will inform cultural preservation initiatives and enhance our understanding of the dynamic relationship between tradition and modernity in festival discourse (Chinwe, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to analyzing terminology related to music and dance in Nigerian cultural festivals and does not extend to other cultural expressions.
Definitions of Terms:
Semantic Networks: Interconnected systems of meaning among words and concepts.
Cultural Festivals: Events that celebrate cultural heritage through artistic expression.
Terminology: Specialized vocabulary related to a particular field.
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