Background of the Study
Urban slang in Nigeria is a vibrant linguistic phenomenon, particularly in metropolitan centers like Abuja. This form of language is marked by innovative morphological derivation, where new words and expressions are created through processes such as affixation, compounding, and blending (Babatunde, 2023). Urban slang reflects the dynamic cultural and social interactions of the city, serving as both a marker of modern identity and a vehicle for social commentary. In Abuja, lexical innovation bridges the gap between formal language structures and colloquial usage, showcasing the creativity and adaptability of urban speakers (Adesola, 2024). However, the rapid evolution of urban slang poses challenges for linguistic analysis, as traditional morphological frameworks may not fully capture the fluidity and complexity of these derivations (Okafor, 2025). This study undertakes a comparative analysis of morphological derivation in Abuja’s urban slang, shedding light on the mechanisms of lexical innovation and exploring its broader implications for understanding contemporary language evolution in urban Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
Although urban slang is a significant aspect of contemporary Nigerian language, systematic research on the morphological derivation processes that underpin lexical innovation in cities like Abuja is limited. The rapid evolution of slang, driven by social media and urban cultural dynamics, creates challenges in documenting and analyzing these linguistic phenomena (Babatunde, 2023). Traditional linguistic models may not adequately address the creative processes involved, resulting in a gap in understanding how new words are formed and disseminated (Adesola, 2024). This study addresses this gap by investigating the morphological derivation in Abuja’s urban slang, providing insights into the underlying linguistic processes and their social implications (Okafor, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To analyze morphological derivation in Abuja's urban slang.
To compare lexical innovation processes with traditional morphological frameworks.
To assess the social and cultural implications of these linguistic innovations.
Research Questions
What are the primary morphological processes driving urban slang in Abuja?
How does urban slang differ from traditional linguistic derivation in Nigeria?
What social factors influence lexical innovation in urban settings?
Significance of the Study
This study offers a comprehensive analysis of morphological derivation in Nigerian urban slang, focusing on Abuja. By exploring the creative processes behind lexical innovation, the research contributes to our understanding of contemporary language evolution and cultural expression. The findings provide a framework for sociolinguistic analysis and have practical implications for urban communication studies (Babatunde, 2023; Adesola, 2024; Okafor, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the analysis of morphological derivation in Abuja's urban slang. It does not extend to other urban centers or formal language registers.
Definitions of Terms
Morphological Derivation: The process of creating new words by adding affixes or combining word elements.
Urban Slang: Informal language used in metropolitan areas characterized by innovative expressions.
Lexical Innovation: The creation of new words or phrases that enter common usage.
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