An Examination of Hashtag Based Neologisms in Nigerian Social Media: A Case Study of Twitter Movements
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Background of the study
Hashtag based neologisms have emerged as a potent marker of digital linguistic innovation, particularly within Nigerian Twitter movements. Originally designed as a tool for categorization, hashtags have evolved into creative devices that encapsulate socio-political messages and cultural trends. In Nigeria, political and social movements on Twitter harness these hashtags to articulate collective identity and mobilize public opinion, while also reshaping the lexical landscape by coining new terms and expressions (Adeniyi, 2023). The rapid spread of these neologisms demonstrates the dynamic interplay between digital activism and language evolution. Users frequently modify traditional words, blending them with hashtags to create novel forms that resonate with contemporary issues. This study examines the formation, dissemination, and impact of hashtag based neologisms within Nigerian Twitter movements, exploring how digital platforms foster a vibrant environment for lexical innovation (Ibrahim, 2024). The research aims to contribute to sociolinguistic theory by providing insights into the mechanisms that drive digital language change and by highlighting the role of online activism in shaping modern vocabulary (Obi, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Although hashtag based neologisms are a notable phenomenon in Nigerian Twitter movements, there is limited systematic research on their linguistic characteristics and social implications. Existing studies tend to focus on the political aspects of hashtag activism without a detailed analysis of the lexical innovations it produces. This gap restricts our ability to understand the processes underlying neologism formation and stabilization in digital discourse (Chinwe, 2023). Without such insights, educators and policymakers lack the necessary data to develop frameworks for addressing rapid language change in online contexts (Ibrahim, 2024).
Objectives of the study
1. To investigate the formation and evolution of hashtag based neologisms on Twitter.
2. To analyze the linguistic features of these neologisms.
3. To assess their impact on overall digital vocabulary.
Research questions
1. How are hashtag based neologisms formed in Nigerian Twitter movements?
2. What linguistic features characterize these neologisms?
3. How do these neologisms influence broader language use?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it explores hashtag based neologisms within Nigerian Twitter movements, providing insights into digital lexical innovation. The findings will enhance sociolinguistic theory and inform language education and media policy by illustrating how digital activism drives vocabulary change (Adeniyi, 2023; Obi, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to analyzing hashtag based neologisms on Nigerian Twitter, excluding other social media platforms and non activist contexts.
Definitions of terms
• Neologism: A newly coined word or expression.
• Hashtag Based Neologism: A neologism created through the use of hashtags.
• Digital Activism: The use of digital platforms for political or social mobilization.
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