Background of the study
Hashtag trends have become central to digital communication, influencing how ideas are disseminated and communities are formed on social media. In Nigeria, the use of hashtags on platforms such as Twitter and Instagram offers a rich field for exploring linguistic creativity and social mobilization (Ibrahim, 2023). These trends are reflective of broader cultural and political movements, serving as rallying points for discussions on identity, social justice, and innovation. Comparative analysis of hashtag usage across these platforms reveals significant differences in how users engage with content and express collective sentiments (Obi, 2024). Twitter’s concise format encourages rapid, real‑time engagement, while Instagram’s visual emphasis facilitates more sustained narrative formations. These differences contribute to distinct hashtag movements that shape public discourse and affect language practices (Chukwu, 2023). The dynamic nature of hashtag trends in Nigeria not only highlights the evolving landscape of digital communication but also underscores the interplay between media affordances and cultural expression. By examining these trends, the study aims to elucidate how digital tools influence language use and social interaction, ultimately contributing to the broader field of digital sociolinguistics (Okafor, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Despite the widespread use of hashtags on Nigerian social media, there is limited research comparing their role across different platforms. Current studies tend to focus on one platform, overlooking the nuanced differences between Twitter and Instagram in shaping public discourse and language practices (Ibrahim, 2023). This narrow focus has led to an incomplete understanding of how hashtag trends foster community building, linguistic innovation, and cultural expression in varied digital environments (Obi, 2024). Additionally, without a comparative approach, it remains unclear how platform-specific features influence the formation and spread of hashtag movements. Addressing this gap is critical for developing a holistic understanding of digital language dynamics and social mobilization in Nigeria (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the study
Research questions
Significance of the study
This study is significant because it provides a comparative perspective on hashtag trends across major Nigerian social media platforms. The findings will inform digital communication strategies, enhance understanding of sociolinguistic innovation, and support future research on digital mobilization (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study focuses solely on hashtag trends on Twitter and Instagram within Nigeria. It does not extend to other social media platforms or offline communication practices, ensuring a targeted examination of the specified phenomenon.
Definitions of terms
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