English: The Linguistic Alpha and Omega in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper observed the dominant role of English language in Nigeria. Various factors responsible for the spread and domination of the language in Nigerians’ lives were observed. These include; the multilingual nature of the country; the inability of the country to select a national language from the three indigenous languages (Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba) or other minor languages; influence of the Western culture and attitudes of Nigerians towards the English language. The paper also discussed the various roles English language plays in Nigerian societies which make it dominates the indigenous languages in the country. English is both the official and the National language in Nigeria. It is the language of education, law, commerce and religion in the country. It is the language in which most activities are carried out. The writer concluded by recommending that the indigenous languages, especially the “three big”, should be promoted to the status of National language. A credit pass at O level in the indigenous languages should be made a criterion for admission into higher institutions of learning in the country. Otherwise, the values attached to the indigenous culture and traditions will be eroded; the incoming generation will have no indigenous languages to inherit but the English language.