GST 112: Nigeria Peoples and Culture - Indigenous Languages

Practice flashcards covering definitions, roles, and challenges of indigenous languages in Nigeria based on the GST 112 lecture notes.

Language (Hall, 1968)

The introduction through which human beings communicate and interact with each other by means of arbitrarily used and auditory symbols.

Language (Izuagie, 1995)

An indispensable tool to all social animals that is natural to everyone, similar to eating, sleeping, and breathing.

Language (Kayode, 1997)

A tool used to inform and mis-inform, to tell the truth as well as tell lies.

Language (Akindele F. and Adegbite W, 1992)

A system of vocal symbols by which human beings communicate ideas.

Indigenous Languages

Native, local languages or mother tongue that individuals speak from birth, which they use to dream, think, and express feelings.

Nwadike (2002) Metaphor

Describes indigenous language as the key to the heart of the people which, if kept safe, unlocks the door to untold riches.

Number of Nigerian Language Groups

According to Abiril (1982), Nigeria is a multilingual nation with over $300$ language groups.

Major Nigeria Languages

The three languages recognized by the government: Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba.

Cognitive Development Factors

The use of mother-tongue in education enhances creativity, manipulative ability, and instructional capacity (Bamgbose, 1976).

Linguistic Right

The opportunity for a human being to acquire education or communication in their mother-tongue to avoid being deprived or dehumanized.

English Language in Nigeria

A second language used for inter-ethnic communication, education, and globalization, though it may hinder effective social mobilization.

Development

A multi-dimensional process involving changes in structures, attitudes, and institutions, as well as economic growth and the reduction of poverty.

Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) Inventions

Technological breakthroughs by the Igbo (Biafrans) using their native language, including Ogbunigwe, Mbaise Battery, and Ojukwu Bunker.

Ogbunigwe

A mass killer ammunition invented during the Nigerian civil war.

Ojukwu Bunker

An underground tunnel constructed during the Nigerian civil war.

Successful Proponents of Language Policy

Nations like China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, and Singapore which revolutionalized educational policies on indigenous languages for technological growth.

Linguistic Independence Struggle

A movement started after independence resulting in the creation of Nigerian Language departments in Colleges of Education and Universities.

NPE

National Policy on Education; its implementation is considered the way forward for boosting Nigerian indigenous languages.

Linguistic Equality

The suggestion that the government should stop classifying languages as major or minor because all languages perform the same roles.