Background of the Study
Regional media in Nigeria play a crucial role in disseminating information and shaping public discourse. Urban broadcasts, influenced by modern global media trends, often adopt a more formal and standardized linguistic approach, whereas rural broadcasts tend to reflect local dialects and cultural idioms. This study investigates how these regional differences influence pragmatic strategies in broadcast language. Pragmatics—the study of language use in context—reveals how speakers negotiate meaning, politeness, and cultural values in different settings (Onyema, 2023). By comparing urban and rural broadcast language, the research seeks to document the pragmatic markers, such as politeness strategies, hedges, and contextual references, that are uniquely employed in each setting. This comparative analysis highlights the dynamic interplay between tradition and modernization in Nigerian media and its effect on message clarity and audience engagement. The study ultimately aims to provide recommendations for enhancing pragmatic efficiency across diverse regional contexts while preserving cultural identity (Ibrahim, 2024; Adebola, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the influential role of regional media, there is scant research on how pragmatic strategies differ between urban and rural broadcasts in Nigeria. Variations in language use can lead to inconsistencies in message interpretation and audience engagement (Onyema, 2023). The lack of a comparative framework hinders efforts to optimize broadcast language for clarity and cultural relevance. Without systematic analysis, regional disparities in pragmatic devices may contribute to misunderstandings among diverse audiences, affecting the overall efficacy of public communication (Ibrahim, 2024; Adebola, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To compare pragmatic markers in urban and rural broadcasts.
To analyze how regional contexts influence language use.
To propose strategies for enhancing pragmatic coherence in media.
Research Questions
What are the key pragmatic differences between urban and rural broadcast language?
How do regional factors affect the use of pragmatic devices?
What measures can improve pragmatic efficiency in regional media?
Significance of the Study
This study provides critical insights into the influence of regional media on Nigerian pragmatics, aiding media practitioners and policymakers in developing strategies that enhance clarity and cultural resonance. By comparing urban and rural broadcast language, the findings contribute to a more inclusive understanding of public discourse in Nigeria (Onyema, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024; Adebola, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to broadcast language in selected urban and rural regions of Nigeria and does not include print or online media formats.
Definitions of Terms
Pragmatics: The study of language use in context.
Broadcast Language: The style of language used in radio and television media.
Regional Media: Media outlets that serve specific geographic or cultural communities.
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION