Language Endangerment in English As A Second Language (ESL) Nigerian Context

Abstract

The issue of language endangerment and possible linguicide, where exoglossic languages such as English and French hold sway, has characterized African multilingual societies. In spite of the awareness of the importance of language diversity, ‘Peace linguistics’ (Crystal 2008), the tendency towards the use of English as the only language in Nigeria tends to be increasing pathetically. Some linguists have cautioned that the way the English language is going, it may eventually kill most of the other languages in the world (Colls 2009). This development has prompted new initiatives whereby concerned citizens, policy makers, and administrators dread the loss of their heritage languages. Many of these languages are now endangered and are teetering on the brink of extinction. A mini language survey was carried out in South West Nigeria to assess the linguistic repertoire of the average Nigerian elite.  Findings show much loss or erosion in their first language (L1) competence. In light of the above, this paper examines the causes and nature of language endangerment in Nigeria and suggests possible ways to save Nigerian dying tongues based on UNESCO’s (2003) resolution that language diversity is essential to the survival of human heritage and that every language embodies the unique cultural wisdom of a people.