Background of the study
Nigeria’s rich linguistic diversity is vividly reflected in its regional accents. In Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s major urban centers, speakers exhibit distinct phonetic characteristics that differentiate their accent from those in other regions. This study investigates the phonetic variability found in voice recordings from Ibadan, focusing on parameters such as vowel quality, consonant articulation, and intonation patterns. Such variability is influenced by factors like ethnicity, social class, and contact with other languages (Ojo, 2023). The research employs acoustic analysis and sociophonetic surveys to document these differences and examine their implications for identity and communication. Understanding regional phonetic variability is critical for developing speech recognition systems and for informing language policy in educational settings (Babatunde, 2024). The study also contributes to broader theoretical discussions on language variation and change in multilingual societies, highlighting the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation in Nigerian speech (Folashade, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite observable phonetic variability among Nigerian regional accents, detailed studies focusing on specific urban centers like Ibadan are scarce. Inconsistent phonetic features can hinder effective communication and the development of accurate speech technology (Ojo, 2023). The lack of systematic documentation of accent-specific variations creates challenges for linguists and technologists aiming to design regionally adaptive language tools. This study aims to bridge this gap by providing empirical data on the phonetic features of Ibadan accents and examining their impact on communication and technological applications (Babatunde, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
1. To document the phonetic features of Ibadan regional accents.
2. To analyze variability in vowel and consonant production.
3. To assess implications for speech technology and communication.
Research questions:
1. What are the key phonetic features of Ibadan accents?
2. How does phonetic variability manifest among speakers?
3. What impact does this variability have on communication and technology?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides a detailed analysis of phonetic variability in Ibadan accents, contributing to the fields of sociophonetics and speech technology. The findings will aid linguists, educators, and developers in creating more effective communication tools and preserving regional linguistic diversity (Folashade, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses on phonetic variability in voice recordings from Ibadan and does not extend to other regions or dialectal features outside phonetics.
Definitions of terms:
1. Phonetic Variability: Differences in sound production among speakers.
2. Regional Accents: Distinctive speech patterns associated with a geographical area.
3. Voice Recordings: Audio samples used for linguistic analysis.
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