An Assessment of Morphosyntactic Variation in Nigerian Urban Centers: A Case Study of Port Harcourt Dialects
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Background of the study
Urban centers in Nigeria, such as Port Harcourt, are characterized by a dynamic interplay of languages and dialects, leading to significant morphosyntactic variation. This study examines how indigenous languages, Nigerian English, and various pidgins interact in Port Harcourt, producing distinctive syntactic and morphological features. The research focuses on patterns such as word order variations, morphological simplifications, and the blending of language forms, which are reflective of the city’s multicultural environment (Okoro, 2023). By analyzing interviews, social media texts, and recorded conversations, the study aims to document the linguistic innovations that arise from this contact. Such morphosyntactic variation not only enriches the urban linguistic landscape but also poses challenges for standardization and educational practices. The findings will offer insights into how language evolves in multilingual urban centers and inform strategies for language planning and policy in diverse cities (Afolabi, 2024; Uche, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the evident morphosyntactic variation in urban centers like Port Harcourt, there is a lack of comprehensive studies documenting these phenomena. Variations in syntax and morphology may lead to communication barriers and hinder language standardization in educational and official contexts (Okoro, 2023). The absence of systematic analysis impedes the development of linguistic models that can account for the dynamic nature of urban speech. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the morphosyntactic features of Port Harcourt dialects, thereby providing empirical data to support effective language planning and policy-making (Uche, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
1. To document morphosyntactic features in Port Harcourt dialects.
2. To analyze factors influencing these variations.
3. To recommend policies for managing urban linguistic diversity.
Research questions:
1. What morphosyntactic variations are present in Port Harcourt?
2. How do these variations arise from language contact?
3. What implications do they have for language standardization?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides a detailed assessment of morphosyntactic variation in Port Harcourt, enhancing our understanding of urban language dynamics. The insights will aid linguists, educators, and policymakers in addressing challenges related to language standardization and multicultural communication (Uche, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses exclusively on morphosyntactic variation in urban Port Harcourt. It does not extend to rural areas or other regions.
Definitions of terms:
1. Morphosyntax: The interaction between morphological and syntactic structures.
2. Dialect: A regional or social variety of a language.
3. Urban Centers: Major cities characterized by diverse linguistic influences.
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