An Appraisal of Phonological Processes in Nigerian Urban Dialects: A Comparative Study of Lagos and Port Harcourt
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Background of the Study
Urban dialects in Nigeria are continuously shaped by rapid social change and cultural diversity. This study focuses on phonological processes—such as assimilation, elision, and vowel shifts—in the urban dialects of Lagos and Port Harcourt. These cities, as major economic hubs, exhibit distinctive phonetic features influenced by factors such as migration, media exposure, and socio-economic conditions (Adeleke, 2023). By comparing speech samples from Lagos and Port Harcourt, the research aims to document variations in accent, intonation, and speech rhythm. The study uses acoustic analysis and field recordings to identify patterns of phonological change. Understanding these processes is crucial for grasping how urban communication evolves and for informing language education and preservation efforts. Additionally, the study examines how urban dialects maintain or diverge from traditional phonetic norms, shedding light on the broader dynamics of language change in Nigeria (Okoro, 2023; Chinwe, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although urban dialects in Nigeria are known to exhibit unique phonological features, there is limited comparative research on these processes across major cities such as Lagos and Port Harcourt. Existing studies often focus on individual dialects without providing a side-by-side analysis of phonological variation (Adeleke, 2023). This gap hampers our understanding of how urban environments influence phonetic change and the implications for interregional communication. Without systematic investigation, the factors driving phonological differences remain unclear, limiting effective language planning and educational strategies. This study seeks to address these deficiencies by comparing phonological processes in the urban dialects of Lagos and Port Harcourt (Okoro, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
- To document phonological processes in Lagos and Port Harcourt.
- To compare accent features and speech patterns between the two cities.
- To assess the implications for urban communication.
Research Questions
- What phonological processes are evident in Lagos and Port Harcourt dialects?
- How do these processes differ between the cities?
- What impact do these differences have on interregional communication?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a comparative analysis of phonological processes in Nigerian urban dialects, offering valuable insights for linguists, educators, and media professionals. The findings will help refine language teaching and communication strategies in urban settings (Adeleke, 2023; Chinwe, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the comparative analysis of phonological features in Lagos and Port Harcourt.
Definitions of Terms
- Phonological Processes: The systematic patterns of sound change in language.
- Urban Dialects: Regional language varieties used in metropolitan areas.
- Accent: Distinctive pronunciation features of a language.
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