Endangered Identity: Causes and Consequences of Dialects’ Extinction in Nigeria

Nigeria is home to a rich linguistic diversity, with different dialects at risk of extinction. Indoctrinated language like English is at the verge of side-lining major languages such as the Nigerian Pidgin, and other major ethnic dialects like Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo which is leading to their gradual decline. This language shift is driven by social, economic, and educational factors, as well as urbanization. Local dialect extinct would result in the loss of cultural identity, traditions, and historical ecological knowledge tied to these dialects. This study uses language shift theory and ecological linguistics to understand the causes and consequences. These theories explain how younger generations adopt dominant languages, leading to the abandonment of indigenous dialects; as well as show how the loss of dialect also mean the loss of cultural and environmental knowledge tied to it. The causes include globalization, migration, colonial legacies, and educational policies that marginalize indigenous dialects. The consequences of language loss are weighty, contributing to social inequality, decrease in ethnocentrism, cultural erosion, loss of valuable local knowledge, among others. To address this, solutions like documentation, revitalization through the inclusion of dialects into formal education setting, and community-driven initiatives are essential. Government policies and public awareness campaigns should promote the use of indigenous dialects and support language preservation ideas. Protecting Nigeria’s linguistic heritage is vital to preserving its cultural identity and ensuring its diversity for future generations.