Developing Plurilingual Speakers in a Multilingual Situation : A Case of the University of Nigeria

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume IV, Issue V, May 2020 | ISSN 2454–6186

Developing Plurilingual Speakers in a Multilingual Situation : A Case of the University of Nigeria

Wayas, David Tarhom Ph.D¹ , Obinna Mouh U.², Mbata Godwin Segun^{3
1 &3} Department of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages, University of Nigeria
²Department of History of International Studies, University of Nigeria

Abstract : The language choice is an issue of critical national debate in every multilingual society. In a multilingual setting like Nigeria, language is often considered as a weapon for marginalization and exclusion. This paper explores the importance of plurilingual consciousness among Nigerians. The study adopts both qualitative and quantitative approaches for analysis. The result shows that, most respondents with an urban upbringing displayed negative attitudes towards indigenous languages when compared to those with rural upbringings. The study suggests that speaking at least three or more Nigerian indigenous languages will certainly promote national unity and peace. It is therefore important to ensure a modification in the existing language policy to appreciate the need for plurilinguial speakers in Nigeria project.

Keywords: Plurilingualism, Language learning, Speech community and Enthnolinguistics.

I. INTRODUCTION

One of the dominant and pervasive problems in Nigeria, and in Africa at large is the language question. Language, being a potent vehicle of transmitting cultures, values, norms and belief remains a central factor in determining the status any nation. Nigeria consists of multiple speech communities having over four hundred languages. A speech community could mean a group of people who use the same variety of a language. Members of this community share a set of norms and expectation regarding the use of language. A speech community is not always made up of speakers of just a single language. It is a group that has goals or purpose, and uses communication to achieve these goals or purpose. Gumperz (1982) defines speech community as a system of organized divert held by common norms and aspiration. Members of such community typically vary with respect to certain belief and other aspect of behaviour. A society in which three or more distinct language coexist side by side is referred to as a multilingual society while a person who speak more than three distinct language is a polyglot.
The significance of language in a society cannot be underestimated. Human beings have the innate ability to acquire language and acquire as many languages at their disposal. Apart from being an instrument of communication or interaction, it is also an identity of such society. A society cannot exist without language, therefore society and language exists side by side. Language serves as a binding force in any society. It also serves as the mutual identity of the people inhabiting a such society.

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