Language, communication on wheels and national development: The inscriptions on tricycle (Keke) example

Abstract

Commercial transportation is strategic in national economy. It facilitates the mobility of material and human resources. In Nigeria, a significant number of commercial vehicles have inscriptions on different parts; an indicator that the labour force engaged in this sub sector has messages for the public. This study therefore examines language use, forms, popular themes and objectives of the writings, using tricycle, popularly known as keke as an example. Insights from Sociolinguistics and Systemic Functional Grammar conventions provide explanatory tools. Data on language use highlight current realities of Nigeria’s multilingualism – language dominance and shift. Data on language forms reflect short catchy names and expressions which relate to diverse issues – identity, aggressive stance towards opposition, personal philosophy. Information from the study indicates the intricate societal relationships that give impetus to this form of mass communication; trends in language usage in this domain add to language development and a study on language use and communicative needs of a group can assist in the understanding and development of that sector of the economy.