An Examination of Hashtag Evolution on Nigerian Social Media: A Case Study of Twitter Language Innovation
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- NGN 5000
Background of the study
Hashtags have become a ubiquitous element of social media, serving as markers for cultural, political, and linguistic phenomena. In Nigeria, the evolution of hashtags on Twitter is emblematic of broader language innovation processes. Hashtags not only categorize content but also function as creative linguistic tools that facilitate new forms of expression and identity construction (Okafor, 2023). Recent research indicates that Nigerian Twitter users adopt and adapt hashtags in innovative ways, generating neologisms and altering grammatical conventions in real time (Ugo, 2024). This evolution reflects a dynamic interplay between technology and language, as users harness hashtags to engage with sociopolitical issues and popular culture. The study explores how hashtag evolution on Twitter contributes to language innovation, examining its role in disseminating trends and fostering community identity. The adaptive use of hashtags has transformed traditional language structures and inspired new communicative practices among digital users (Eze, 2023). By focusing on a case study of Nigerian Twitter interactions, this research aims to elucidate the mechanisms of linguistic change driven by digital media and offer insights into the future trajectory of language innovation (Adebayo, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Although hashtags are integral to online communication, there is insufficient research on how their evolution influences language innovation in Nigeria. Current studies often emphasize the functional role of hashtags for categorization and trend analysis, while neglecting their impact on linguistic creativity and grammatical change (Nwachukwu, 2023). This gap in the literature limits our understanding of how hashtags serve as vehicles for language evolution, particularly in the context of Nigerian Twitter users. Moreover, the rapid development of digital communication practices poses challenges to traditional linguistic frameworks, making it imperative to examine these changes in real time (Ijeoma, 2024). This study seeks to address these issues by providing an in-depth analysis of hashtag evolution and its contribution to language innovation in Nigerian social media.
Objectives of the study
1. To examine the evolution of hashtags on Nigerian Twitter.
2. To analyze the role of hashtags in driving language innovation.
3. To develop theoretical insights into digital linguistic change.
Research questions
1. How do hashtags evolve in Nigerian Twitter discourse?
2. What linguistic innovations are associated with hashtag usage?
3. How can the findings inform digital language studies?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it investigates the evolution of hashtags on Nigerian Twitter and their role in language innovation. By exploring how hashtags contribute to new linguistic forms, the research deepens understanding of digital communication’s impact on language change. The findings will support theoretical advancements in sociolinguistics and provide practical insights for digital media analysts and policymakers. Additionally, the study offers a framework for analyzing similar linguistic phenomena across other digital platforms, highlighting the transformative nature of social media on language. It contributes to academic discourse and informs future research directions (Ekwueme, 2023; Nnadi, 2024). This research expands theoretical knowledge and applications.
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to examining hashtag evolution on Nigerian Twitter and its effect on language innovation. It focuses solely on Twitter as a platform, excluding other social media channels and offline linguistic practices.
Definitions of terms
• Hashtag Evolution: The process by which hashtags change in form and function over time.
• Language Innovation: The development of new linguistic forms and structures.
• Twitter Language: The distinctive style and conventions of communication on Twitter.
