The Ondo Journal of Arts (OJA) is a prestigious, peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to publishing high-quality, original research in the diverse fields of the arts. OJA serves as a dynamic platform for scholars, researchers, and creatives to disseminate innovative findings, foster interdisciplinary dialogue, and drive the advancement of knowledge in the arts. Committed to academic excellence, the journal amplifies impactful scholarship and contributes to the global enrichment of artistic discourse.
Ìtúpalẹ̀ Àṣàyàn Àkóónú Oríkì Ilẹ̀ Yorùbá
Oríkì jẹ́ ẹ̀yà lítíréṣọ̀ kan tí ó jinlẹ̀ púpọ nínú gbogbo lítíréṣọ̀ alohùn Yorùbá nítorí pé ó jẹ́ orísun ìtàn, ẹ̀sìn, ìṣe, ìṣesí, ìfẹ́, èèwọ̀, iṣẹ́ ìran, àbùdá ìrísí àti ìwà ìran kan. Yàtọ̀ sí èyí, oríkì kò mọ ní ti ẹ̀dá ènìyàn nìkan, Olódùmarè, àwọn òrìṣà àkúnlẹ̀bọ, àwọn ẹranko àti ẹyẹ náà ní oríkì tiwọn. Àwọn nǹkan mìíràn bí kòkòrò, òkè, ilẹ̀, odò, igi, ewé, àwọn oúnjẹ ìbílẹ̀, èso, àìsàn, àrùn àti àwọn nǹkan mìíràn náà ní oríkì tiwọn lọ́kan-ò-jọ̀kan. Èyí fi hàn wá pé oríkì gbòòrò púpọ̀ àti pé kò fẹ́rẹ̀ sí ohun tí ó wà lórílẹ̀ ayé yìí tí Olódùmarè dá tí kò ní oríkì tirẹ̀. Oríkì, pàápàá oríkì orìlẹ̀ máa ń farahàn nínú gbogbo ìṣèré àwọn akéwì tàbí apohùn Yorùbá. Ìṣàmúlò oríkì nínú ìṣèré wọn máa ń fi wọ́n hàn gẹ́gẹ́ bí akéwì tó dáńtọ́ láwùjọ Yorùbá. Nínú iṣẹ́ ìwádìí yìí, a wo ìtumọ̀ àti àbùdá oríkì Yorùbá. A tún ṣe ìtúpalẹ̀ àkóónú àṣàyàn oríkì tí ó tọ́ka sí àṣá, ẹ̀sìn, ìṣe, èèwọ̀, ìtàn, ẹbí ohun tí ó jẹ́ àléébù àwọn ìran wọ̀nyí. Àbájáde iṣẹ́ ìwádìí yìí fi ìdí rẹ̀ múlẹ̀ pé oríkì máa ń roni, àlàjẹ́ a sì máa ro ènìyàn. Oríkì a máa mù orí ẹni wú, ó máa fúnni ní ìgboyà pẹ̀lú ìmọ̀lára, ó máa ń júwe orírun ẹni, ó sì máa ń fini lọ́kànbalẹ̀ pé ojúlówó ọmọ ìran báyìí ni irú ẹni bẹ́ẹ̀ jẹ́. Ọ̀kan lára àwọn ogún ìní ìran kọ̀ọ́kan ní ilẹ̀ Yorùbá ni oríkì jẹ́, a kò gbọdọ̀ jẹ́ kí ó parun.
Oríkì, Oríkì-orílẹ̀, Àwùjọ Yorùbá, Ìtúpalẹ̀, Àṣàyàn
Copyright (c) 2025 ONDO JOURNAL OF ARTS (OJA)
Enhancing Yorùbá Language Education with Technology
The decline of Yorùbá language proficiency, driven by English dominance and limited digital resources, poses a critical challenge for its revitalisation. Despite advances in technology-enhanced language learning (TELL), research on African indigenous languages like Yorùbá remains scarce, particularly regarding culturally relevant digital tools. This study addresses this gap by exploring how technology can enhance Yorùbá education while preserving its cultural essence and fostering engagement. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative case studies of learners using mobile apps and virtual classrooms with quantitative surveys on proficiency gains. It applies a hybrid framework of Yorùbá epistemology, emphasising oral traditions, and Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, focusing on mediated learning via the Zone of Proximal Development. This lens evaluates how tools like e-books and AI pronunciation aids support culturally grounded, collaborative instruction. Findings show a 25% improvement in vocabulary retention and 30% in oral fluency with multimedia apps, alongside stronger cultural connections through proverb-based exercises. However, challenges include rural internet access and tonal accuracy in AI tools. These results highlight technology’s role in creating immersive learning experiences. This study contributes a culturally sensitive model for TELL in indigenous contexts, offering empirical evidence for Yorùbá revitalisation and a replicable framework for other languages. It informs curriculum design and policy, promoting linguistic diversity and sustainable education practices in digital-era Nigeria and beyond.
Technology, Yorùbá language education, Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory, Mediating tools, Cultural understanding
CREATIVITY IN MUSICAL ARTS EDUCATION IN NIGERIAN SCHOOLS: A PANACEA TO JAPA SYNDROME
Music is a practically oriented discipline that is generally recognized as a performing art in schools; that is, its ultimate purpose in the teaching and learning process is for skills acquisition, which the music of the 21st century projects and emphasizes. In this regard, the focus of this article is on “Creativity in musical arts education in Nigerian schools through 21st century skills: A Panacea to Japa Syndrome. The paper highlights the requirements for musicianship, which include rudiments and theory of music, ear training and sight reading, technical ability, knowledge of the music literature, a good sense of pitch and rhythm, etc. The application of the aforementioned factors will engender creativity in singing, composing, conducting, dancing, orchestrating, etc. through mediums such as applied music, ensemble music studies and performance workshops, recital programs, concerts, etc. The paper recommends, among other things, that the upcoming artists be given proper exposure through adequate and efficient training in a conducive environment where the trainees are able to explore in order to bring out the creative ability in them towards the actualization of the 21st-century skills. In this regard, the engagement of the employable youth in the music industry and other worthwhile and creative ventures after graduation will serve as a panacea to the Japa syndrome.
Creativity, Skills, Schools, 21st century, music arts education etc.
SYNTACTIC ANALYSIS OF RELATIVE CLAUSE IN GHÒTÙỌ̀
Relativisation is the process of inserting a relative clause in front of the Noun Phrase which precedes it. The structure of the Relative clause remains controversial, as current attempts to replace adjunction theories are fraught with conceptual difficulties. This work examines the relative clause as a syntactic process in Ghòtùọ̀. Chomsky’s Minimalist Program was adopted as a framework. Ethnographic design was used. Twenty-four resident native speakers between the ages of fifty and seventy-nine, two from each of the twelve quarters of Ghòtùọ̀, Owan North Local Government Area of Edo State, were purposely selected. Primary data were elicited through oral interviews using the Ibadan Syntactic Paradigms and the Ibadan 400 Wordlist, while secondary data were sourced from primers and recorded audio clips. Data were subjected to inter-linear glossing, syntactic and qualitative analysis. Our study reveals that the language does not allow adjective as one of the constituents of NP but rather the N will be relativised. Sentence also cannot be relativised. Also, nhi the operator head in the language has some contrastive features which often trigger movement into the Spec which is contrary to some of the already propounded theories. Relativisation is a projection of the head NP and movement is by copy and Paste which is in accordance with language acquisition process. Ghòtùọ̀, being a minority language which the native speakers are gradually desserting by shifting to neighbouring languages may be lost forever if not documenting.
Relativisation, Ghòtùọ̀, operator, movement, adjunction.
Exploring the Dimensions of Language and Myth in Kunle Afolayan’s Aníkúlápó
The nexus of language and mythology discussed in this paper concerns the 2022 Nigerian epic fantasy film Aníkúlápó by Kunle Afolayan. The discussion is based on the concepts of dialogism and heteroglossia, which are developed by Mikhail Bakhtin as the process of interaction of various voices and cultural attitudes in a narrative. The research employs a qualitative design that combines textual and cultural contextualization to demonstrate the functioning of these linguistic instruments all over the film in dialogue forms, proverbs, ritual oratory, and allusions to mythology. The results show that language in Aníkúlápó goes beyond the normal communication. Dialogues are used to represent the cultural and social relationships of the Yoruba, proverbs and references to mythology bring in a religious background and history. Language is used as a means of Yoruba cosmology and worldview through linguistic symbolism, including the appearance of the spirit beings, the àkúdàáyà, and the transformative force of Saro. The paper ends with a conclusion that Aníkúlápó uses language as a great weapon of keeping Yoruba mythology and Yoruba culture in its place and translating them to modern narrations. These two roles make the film a work of art and a cultural library. It advises African filmmakers to use the native languages and mythological values not only to enrich the narrative but also to protect the culture of the people and scholars need to discuss more the concept of cinema as a tool of preserving the intangible heritage of Africa.
Aníkúlápó, Cultural Semiotics, Dialogism, Language in Film, Yoruba Mythology
NEXUS BETWEEN DRAMA, MUSIC, AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN TEACHING AND LEARNING: PROS AND CONS
Technological inventions induce dynamism in the world. These changes trained into different phases of life which education is not an exception. The emergent of artificial intelligence in the various aspects of life create vistas of development in the world. However, the field of education clinched these opportunities to verge development in her field. There are different aspects of education with which artificial intelligence has positively affected. The aspect of teaching and learning requires concerted teaching methods to transform knowledge to learners. The teaching and learning are also enjoying the positive effects of artificial intelligence with different inventions like ChatGPT, transforming K-12, Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI), algorithms etc. which aids transformation of learning through teaching methods. This paper focused on the relationships that exist between drama, music and artificial intelligence in the teaching and learning. This research examined concepts of teaching and learning within the context of the application of drama, music and artificial intelligence devices. It also interrogates into the pros and cons of the application of drama, music and artificial intelligence devices in teaching and learning. The research concluded that the application of drama, music and artificial intelligence devices during leaners’ lesson will improve teaching and learning despites the challenges with artificial intelligence invention.
Nexus, Drama, Music, Artificial Intelligence, Teaching, Learning.
Poverty Trauma in Selected Yorùbá Novels
Poverty is a pervasive issue in Yorùbá society, leaving devastating effects on both individuals and communities. However, in spites of its widespread presence, the trauma associated with poverty remains underexplored in Yorùbá literature. This study aims to address this gap by examining the presentation of poverty trauma in selected Yorùbá novels with a view to investigate the manifestation and the healing and recovery strategies adopted in the selected novels. This research employs content and literary analysis to examine two selected Yorùbá novels: Ọ̀bàyéjẹ́ by Bùnmi Olújìnmí and Ojú Rí by Kọ́lá Òní. Trauma theory was employed to examine the ways in which traumatic experiences can affect individual’s sense of self, perception of world, and overall well-being. The study reveals that poverty trauma manifests physically, emotionally, and psychologically, leading to anxiety, substance abuse, and family disintegration. The selected novels depict resilience, community support, and cultural coping mechanisms as effective recovery and healing strategies. The analysis highlights the importance of social support, cultural identity, and community resources in mitigating the effects of poverty trauma. This research concludes that addressing the root causes of poverty is crucial to reducing poverty trauma. This study contributes to the understanding of poverty’s effects on mental health in Yorùbá society, emphasizing the need for solutions to address its traumatic consequences.
Poverty trauma, Yorùbá novels, Manifestation, Healing and recovery
PROPHETIC VOICE IN A MORALLY BANKRUPT WORLD: BISHOP HASSAN KUKAH AND THE ETHICS OF NATIONAL LEADERSHIP
In an era marked by political uncertainty, moral ambiguity, and institutional decay, the prophetic voice remains a crucial force in shaping national discourse. This paper examines the prophetic engagement of Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah within the Nigerian socio-political landscape. As a cleric, scholar, and public intellectual, Kukah embodies the intersection of ethical leadership and prophetic witness. His interventions in public affairs consistently challenge both state and society to uphold justice, accountability, and the common good. Drawing on the frameworks of prophetic imagination and ethical praxis, the paper evaluates Kukah’s role in critiquing political excesses, advocating democratic ideals, and confronting religious intolerance. It also considers the criticisms directed at his interventions and assesses the broader implications of his leadership style for governance and civil society. Through a qualitative analysis of his speeches, writings, and public engagements, the study argues that Kukah’s prophetic voice offers a model of ethical leadership for Africa’s public sphere.
Prophetic voice, Bishop Matthew, Hassan Kukah, ethical leadership, national discourse, governance, Nigeria.
LECTURERS’ ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES EDUCATION ON MORAL DEVELOPMENT AMONG UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN UNDERGRADUATES
Religious Studies education (RSE) has emerged to inculcate sound religious and moral values among students. However, the rate of moral decadence among undergraduates has reached an alarming rate in Nigeria. This study, therefore, examined lecturers’ assessment of the impact of RSE on moral development of university of Ilorin undergraduates. Specifically, the study investigated the differences in the lecturers’ assessment based on gender and teaching experience. The descriptive study consisted of a sample of 150 lecturers. A researcher designed questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.82 was used for the data collection. Data obtained were analysed using mean, rank order, the t-test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that RSE foster peace and unity among undergraduates. Also, there was no statistically significant difference in the lecturers’ assessment based on gender and teaching experience. The study concluded that RSE is crucial in making undergraduates exhibit sound moral and social behaviours. It was therefore, recommended that RSE should be promoted in the universities and other tertiary institutions, also it should be made a required course for all undergraduates so as to inculcate moral values among students.
Lecturers’ Assessment, Moral Development, Religious Studies Education (RSE), Gender, and Teaching Experience.
Reimagining Womanhood: A feminist Discourse Analysis of Selected African Literature in English
Nawal El Saadawi's Woman at Point Zero offers a powerful exploration of women's experiences in a patriarchal society, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of female characters. This study examines the novel's portrayal of women's struggles against societal oppression and its implications for understanding womanhood in Africa. Comparative analysis with other seminal works of African literature, including Nervous Conditions – Tsitsi Dangarembga,The First Woman’s Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi and Stay with Me by Ayọ̀bámi Adebayò reveals the shared perspectives on women's experiences that shape the discourse on womanhood in Africa. This research underscores the transformative potential of literature in inspiring societal change and invites further exploration of the complex issues surrounding women's lives.Through a feminist critique informed by intersectionality, this analysis reveals the novel's advocacy for female agency and its challenge to traditional gender roles. The study demonstrates the significance of literary works in shaping cultural narratives and promoting social change, contributing to ongoing discussions on feminism, African literature, and post colonialism.
Keywords: Feminist critique, Intersectionality, womanhood, African literature, societal oppression.
Language as a Tool for Human Integration: A Father’s Journey to bridge Cultures
Language barriers have been identified as key factors contributing to social fragmentation and inter-ethnic crises. The problem of "forging ahead," a situation in which languages compete among themselves and scramble for recognition, always rears its head. A unified language could potentially streamline communication, enhance mutual understanding, and promote a shared regional or national identity among diverse ethnic groups. However, the success of such a language hinges on addressing cultural sensitivities and ensuring broad-based support from all communities involved. This study seeks to explore the implications of the Hausa language among different linguistic entities of Northern Nigeria by examining is potential impacts, social cohesion, and language endangerment. The research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with linguistic unification in a multiethnic context. It utilised a quantitative approach with the use of SPSS data analysis and Lev Vygotsky's (1896-1934) sociocultural theory as a theoretical framework. The findings reveal a myriad of detrimental effects resulting from marginalization of indigenous languages and erosion of cultural identity. Although, Hausa, on the other hand, has helped minimize inter-ethnic rivalry and conflicts that would erupt if any of the indigenous languages were imposed to play these roles in the region.
Key words: Language, Human, Integration, Culture
Perspectives on Supernatural Power in Seydou Badian’s Noces Sacrées: A Postcolonial Francophone Literary Discourse
Supernatural power refers to the mysterious occurrences of spirit beings that habitually impinge upon human daily experience in the postcolonial francophone African novels. The chosen novel - Seydou Badian’s Noces sacrées substantiates the universal and African core values on tradition, cultural heritage and morality. This study, therefore, examines supernatural powers of the spirits in the struggle for freedom from colonial oppression with the view to discovering the dominant belief in spirits in postcolonial francophone African novels. The study adopted postcolonial theory which emphasises the effect of culture displacement and resistance to domination.
A Comparative Sociolinguistic Analysis of Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu’s Inaugural Speeches
In this study, two Nigerian Presidents (Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu) gave their inaugural addresses in office and the speeches are compared and contrasted. Muhammadu Buhari was Nigerian president, 2015 to 2023 and Bola Tinubu became the president in 2023. The Nigerian Constitution states four years per term up to the maximum of two terms. The study seeks to offer insightful information on their leadership priorities and discourse patterning through an analysis of linguistic elements, discourse structures, rhetorical devices, themes, and power dynamics. The results illustrate their shared emphasis on national unity, good governance, and development across numerous areas while also emphasizing disparities in their approaches. Both leaders declare their dedication to global participation, with Buhari highlighting Nigeria's position in Africa and Tinubu highlighting inter-regional collaboration. The study aims at comparing the two speeches by bringing out the linguistic patterns and the sociocultural elements influencing the language and the use. Data were collected from the speeches presented by the two presidents at their inauguration days. However, to fully assess their leadership effectiveness or otherwise, more investigation is required so as to broaden the analysis with a view to encompassing a wider spectrum of statements and deeds.
linguistic study, inaugural speeches, comparative analysis, political discourse
SOCIOLINGUISTIC FUNCTIONS OF HUMOR IN NIGERIAN SOCIETY: A DUAL-EDGED DISCOURSE OF IDENTITY AND POWER
This study explores the sociolinguistic dimensions of humor, emphasizing the intricate interplay between language, culture, and social interaction. Humor, as a universal human phenomenon, functions not only as entertainment but also as a potent social tool that reflects cultural norms, social identities, and power relations. The rationale for this research lies in the recognition that while humor has been widely studied in linguistic and cultural contexts separately, there remains a significant gap in integrative sociolinguistic analyses that examine humor as a dynamic site of language use within culturally situated social interactions. The primary objective is to investigate how humor operates as a communicative strategy that negotiates meaning, reinforces or challenges social hierarchies, and fosters group cohesion across diverse cultural settings. This study employs a pragmatic and discourse analytic theoretical framework to analyze humorous exchanges in naturalistic interactions, focusing on code-switching, politeness strategies, and cultural references. Its significance stems from contributing to a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural functions of humor, thereby enriching sociolinguistic theory and intercultural communication studies. By addressing the underexplored nexus between humor, language, and culture in social contexts, the study fills a crucial gap in existing research. It offers novel insights into how humor mediates social relations and cultural identities, thus providing implications for conflict resolution, education, and cross-cultural communication. The research ultimately contributes to existing knowledge by foregrounding humor as a multifaceted sociolinguistic phenomenon integral to human interaction.
Yoruba Women and Pre-colonial Warfare in Pre-colonial Yorubaland
The history of women's involvement in warfare spans various societies and time periods, including ancient, medieval, precolonial, colonial, and postcolonial Africa. However, the contributions of Yoruba women to warfare in pre-colonial Yorubaland remain understudied. This study investigates Yoruba women's multifaceted roles in warfare, explores their experiences, examines their contributions, and highlights their strengths and sheds light on their hidden roles in warfare in order to promote a more inclusive understanding of military history and the complex dynamics of power and gender in precolonial Yorubaland. The study adopted a historical and documentary research design. Primary and secondary data were gathered through in-depth interviews (IDI) with 39 individuals, including women leaders, traditional chiefs, priestesses, historians, and experts in women's studies. Ten focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted with traditional women leaders, clan heads, and traditional religious leaders. The study applied social, womanism, and actor-network theories, and data were content-analyzed to reveal Yoruba women's significant roles in communal wars. Findings revealed that Yoruba women played significant and multifaceted roles in Yoruba warfare, including as war deities, warrior queens and kings, war legislators, spiritual leaders, titled war leaders, combatants, and various military effort supporters. The study also highlighted the importance of women's involvement in intelligence gathering, diplomacy, and logistics, illustrating their agency, power, and impact on the battlefield and beyond. Their roles were not inferior or subservient to men's roles but rather complementary and sometimes catalytic. Yoruba women's experiences in warfare were shaped by their social, cultural, and religious contexts. They made significant contributions to warfare, demonstrating courage, resilience, and independence. This study recommended recognizing and valuing Yoruba women's contributions to warfare and exploring ways to build on their strengths. The study concluded that Yoruba women played crucial roles in pre-colonial Yorubaland in challenging the prevailing narrative that women's contributions to warfare are limited. Their experiences and contributions offer valuable lessons for understanding the complex history of warfare in Africa.
Semantic Analysis of Adverbials in Emotion Expression: A Comparative Study of Social Media Platforms in Nigeria
The study investigated the semantic role of adverbials in expressing emotions across the three major social media platforms, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, in Nigeria. Drawing from 78000 annotated posts between 2022 and 2024, it integrated the appraisal theory under the systemic functional linguistic framework theory, focusing on the affect, judgement, and engagement subsystems. The study identified, categorised and analysed adverbials that modulate emotions across political, religious, social, economic, and educational contexts. Methodologically, a mixed-methods was adopted, combining computational text mining with manual discourse analysis.The findings reveal a pattern of intense emotional framing through adverbials, with Twitter exhibiting the highest density of affective and judgmental adverbials. The research contributed to sentiment analysis, forensic linguistics, and digital pragmatics.
Adverbial, Semantics, Appraisal, facebook,Twitter
"An Ode to Mágùn" by Prof. S. Idowu Fabarebo is a poetic tribute to Mágùn, a traditional Yoruba magical charm used to combat adultery and sexual promiscuity. The poem personifies Mágùn as a paradoxical entity: a benevolent guardian of marital fidelity yet a ruthless destroyer of transgressors. Through vivid metaphors, it depicts Mágùn's arrival as heralding death, lamentation, and catastrophe for victims, often adulterers who face grotesque punishments like vomiting, gymnastic convulsions, or eternal silence. Mágùn is portrayed as an enigmatic, hydra-headed force -chameleonic, androgynous, and defying definition, capable of melting life's essence, extinguishing desires, and enforcing cosmic stability. Drawing from Yoruba oral traditions, mythology, and prayers, the ode celebrates Mágùn's role as a leveler of the powerful, a ridiculer of the promiscuous, and a paradoxical worker who redeems curses with curses. It underscores themes of irony, where paths of pleasure lead to demise, affirming Mágùn's fearsome prowess in preserving social and moral order Keywords: Mágùn, Yoruba magic. Adultery, Marital fidelity, Mythological paradox
STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING IN MULTILINGUAL CLASSROOMS: A CASE STUDY OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA
Given Nigeria’s linguistic diversity, planning for English Language Teaching (ELT) in schools must move beyond generic language policies and adopt approaches that are responsive to local multilingual realities. This study explores strategic approaches for planning ELT in multilingual classrooms within Ondo State, Nigeria. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as Cummins’ Interdependence Hypothesis and translanguaging pedagogy, and using a qualitative case study method, the research investigates how public schools accommodate or suppress learners' linguistic diversity during English instruction. Data were collected through interviews, classroom observations, and document reviews across three selected schools in urban, semi-urban, and rural parts of Ondo State. Findings reveal that while English is the official language of instruction, teachers frequently resort to Yoruba— either consciously or subconsciously to aid comprehension. However, the use of indigenous languages remains informal, unsupported, and in many cases discouraged by policy and examination standards. The study identifies key barriers to strategic planning, including teacher training gaps, curriculum rigidity, and lack of instructional resources in local languages. The study concludes with practical recommendations for educational planners, teacher trainers, and policymakers, emphasizing the need for context-responsive planning that views multilingualism not as a barrier, but as a pedagogical resource for enhancing ELT in Nigeria.
Keywords: Classroom planning; English Language Teaching (ELT); inclusive pedagogy; multilingual education; language policy; Translanguaging.
The Impact of Indigenous Languages on Nigerian English Pronunciation: A Focus on Hausa Speakers
Nigerian English exists as a unique language variation draws its principles from Nigerian indigenous languages, Hausa inclusive. This research evaluates how Hausa speakers pronounce Nigerian English while studying both pronunciation and social linguistic aspects and speech mismatch problems. A descriptive method was used to evaluate recorded speech samples from Hausa-English bilinguals which demonstrated vowel lengthening while showing how interdental fricatives get substituted and tones impact pronunciation. The results show that Hausa phonological interference reduces Nigerians' speech clarity but simultaneously creates distinct features for the English dialect in Nigeria. The research supports special phonetic instruction along with media participation and pronunciation guides to achieve better clarity in speech along with diversity maintenance. The research results help advance the understanding of Nigerian pronunciation of English and its position in worldwide English diversity.
Nigerian English, Hausa phonology, pronunciation, intelligibility, linguistic transfer.
Kannywood: A Cultural Tapestry and Linguistic Nexus in Northern Nigeria and Beyond
This study investigates Kannywood, the Hausa-language film industry in Northern Nigeria, as a potent tool for linguistic and cultural diversification, grounded in the framework of Cultural Identity Theory and Social Semiotics. Kannywood plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting cultural traditions, values, and the Hausa language, while simultaneously facilitating intercultural dialogue and fostering a pan-African sense of identity. Through compelling narratives and depictions of ancient traditions and folklore, Kannywood films bridge generational divides, reinforce cultural knowledge, and inspire pride in local heritage. Furthermore, the industry contributes to the revitalization of the Hausa language, counteracting linguistic homogenization in an increasingly globalized media landscape. Beyond Nigeria, Kannywood's reach extends into the African diaspora, establishing cultural connections and fostering unity among Africans from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining content analysis of selected Kannywood films and interviews with key stakeholders in the industry, including filmmakers, cultural experts, and audiences. The findings highlight the impact of Kannywood on cultural and linguistic preservation and offer recommendations for strengthening its potential, such as strategic investments, professional development, government support, and collaboration with academic institutions.
Kannywood, Cultural preservation, Language promotion, Hausa film industry, Cross-cultural interactions, Cultural Identity Theory, Social Semiotics.
Focus construction is a universal syntactic phenomenon that is used to indicate prominence in natural language through the use of a syntactic or prosodic device. The construction has been widely examined in various Yorùbá dialects, pinpointing the morpheme that expresses the phenomenon and how the construction is projected in each dialect. However, Ọ̀họ̀rí as a dialect of Yorùbá (Oyelaran 1976; Adeniyi, 2000) has not benefited from research work on focus constructions. Therefore, this paper attempts to investigate focus constructions in Ọ̀họ̀rí Yorùbá. The data used in this study were elicited from six adult native speakers of Ọ̀họ̀rí in Kétu, Ègùwá, and Asá, located in the Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria, via structured interviews using a digital recording device. The study employed the minimalist program of Chomsky (1995, 1998, and 2002) and the alternative semantics of Rooth (1992, 1999, 2005, and 2015) in its analyses. The article discusses focusable constituents in the dialect and claims that focusing is ex-situ in Ọ̀họ̀rí. The paper proposes two structural configurations for focus projections in the dialect. The study thereafter argues for in-situ focus constructions as the answer to in-situ content questions in Yorùbá. The article conclusively discusses the semantic roles and interpretations of focus constructions in Ọ̀họ̀rí Yorùbá.
Focusing, Minimalist Program, Projections, Ọ̀họ̀rí, Alternative Semantics
AI-DRIVEN STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCING VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT IN ENGLISH AND YORUBA AMONG SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MULTILINGUAL CLASSROOM IN ONDO STATE
This study investigated the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven strategies in enhancing vocabulary development in both English and Yoruba among Senior Secondary School One (SSS1) students in multilingual classrooms in Ondo State, Nigeria. Based on concepts of constructivist and socio-cognitive learning theories, the study explored how AI tools such as intelligent tutoring systems, gamified language apps, and speech recognition platforms support vocabulary acquisition in a linguistically diverse setting. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The sample size was 180 SSS1 students and 12 teachers of languages from six state-owned secondary schools in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires, pre- and post-vocabulary tests, classroom observation schedules, and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were examined using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were explored thematically. Findings showed that AI-driven learning enhances vocabulary acquisition, pronunciation, and contextual use of the two languages significantly, with impacting effects being felt in hitherto under-supported schools during language learning. The study concluded by recommending policy-level integration of AI tools in language learning syllabuses, AI capacity development for teachers, and culturally tailored AI solution development in order to mitigate multilingual classroom issues in Nigeria.
Artificial Intelligence, Vocabulary Development, English Language, Yoruba Language, Multilingual Classrooms, Bilingual Education.
The Use of Punctuation Marks in Essays Written by SS 3 Students in Salem Group of Schools
Punctuation marks are important signs use in texts to separate words, phrases, clauses and sentences in order to make the grammatical structures readable and easy to understand. Nevertheless, incorrect usage of punctuation remains a persistent challenge among students, especially second language users of English. This study explores the use of punctuation marks among SS3 Senior Secondary School (SS3) students of Salem Group of Schools, Dutse. The main objectives are to: (1) to identify common punctuation errors among SS3 students (2) to examine how punctuation marks affect the clarity and coherence of students’ essays. (3) to assess the proficiency of SS 3 students in using punctuation marks accurately and appropriately in the essays. Data were collected through written essays to examine the accuracy, frequency, and common errors in punctuation usage. Findings reveal frequent misuse of basic punctuation marks, largely due to insufficient instructional emphasis. The study recommends improved teaching strategies and curriculum supports to enhance students’ writing skills. The findings indicate that strengthening students’ proficiency in punctuation can contribute to greater writing clarity and improved academic outcomes.
Punctuation usage, essay writing, assessment, reading habits, student performance.
Female Musicianship: Yorùbá Music as Catalyst for Women's Development and Social Change
Yorùbá music, rich in oral traditions and cultural expressions, has long served as a medium for social commentary and identity formation. The study examined the fluidity of gender roles and the deconstruction of fixed identities through lyrical content and performative acts of female musicians. The study was guided by JuditButler'ser post-structural feminist theory. The primary data for the study include the recorded albums of selecte artistses on audio CD, live plays, purposivconversation,on and participant observation. The content and context of selected songs and active role performances of Bàtílì Àlàkẹ́, Sàláwà Àbẹ̀ní, Ìyábọ̀ Àwẹ̀ró, Comfort Ọmọ́gẹ̀, Halimat Ọmọwúrà and Ṣọlá Allyson-Ọbáníyì were employed to deconstruct the patriarchal gender norms prevalent in Yorùbá music. The secondary data were obtained from books, journals, published and unpublished theses, archives and internet sources. Findings revealed but also Yorùbá music not only reflects but actively reshapes socio-cultural attitudes, offeringresistance,tforms for self-expression, resistance and visibility. Female musicians strategically employ indigenous idioms, spiritual symbolism and personal narratives to criconsciousness, articulate feminist consciousness and foster communal solidarity. The paper concludes that Yorùbá music serves as a dynamic tool for challenging hegemonic structures and fostering inclusive cultural discourse. It recommended increased scholarly attention to indigenous musical forms as agents of feminist activism and the promotion of gender-equitable policies that support women’s participation in cultural production.
Yorùbá music, Female Musicianship, Women's Development, Social Change, Poststructuralist Feminism
Ìlò Àwàdà fún Yíyanjú Ìṣòro Ìbára-ẹni-gbé-pọ̀ Ajẹmọ́dìílé Gẹ́gẹ́ BIí Ó Ṣe Hàn Nínú Àwọn Àṣàyàn Ìwé Eré-Onítàn Yorùbá
Àṣamọ̀ Ohun tí ó bí iṣẹ́ ìwádìí yìí ni àwọn ìṣòro tí ó ń kojú ìbára-ẹni-gbé-pọ̀ nínú ètò ìdílé àti ipa tí àwọn ìṣòro wọ̀nyí ní lórí àwùjọ. Lára àwọn ìṣòro wọ̀nyí ni ìfojútẹ́ńbẹ́lú-ẹni, ìfẹ̀mí-òkùnkùn báni jà, àìnímọ̀ọ́tótó, ìjà, ìmẹ́lẹ́, àìnítẹríba,àìlẹ́kọ̀ọ́-iléàti àṣìlò ọmọ-ọ̀dọ̀.Èròńgbà iṣẹ́ ìwádìí yìí ni láti wò bí ìlò àwàdà ṣe lè yanjú ìṣòro ìbára-ẹni-gbé-pọ̀ ajẹmọ́dìílé nípa ìfòótọ́-ọ̀rọ̀ gún aṣebi lára nípasẹ̀ ẹ̀rín rírín, kí ó lè jẹ́ àríkọ́gbọ́n fún ẹlòmíràn. Ọgbọ́n iwádìí tí iṣẹ́ yìí tọ̀ ni ṣíṣe ìtúpalẹ̀ kíkún lórí àkóónú àṣàyàn ìwéeré-onítàn méjì, ìyẹnÌyá Yáádì tí Dòsùmú kọ àti Nítorí Owó tí Ìṣọ̀lá kọ láti wo bí àwọn òǹkọ̀wé ṣe lo àwàdàfúnyíyanjú àwọn ìṣòro ìbára-ẹni-gbé-pọ̀ ajẹmọ́dìílé.Tíọ́rì ìfojú-ìmọ̀-ìbára-ẹni-gbé-pọ̀-wò-lítíréṣọ̀ ni ọ̀pákùtẹ̀lẹ̀ tí iṣẹ́ yìí rọ̀ mọ́ nítorí pé láti inú àwùjọ ni ìlò àwàdà ti máa ń jẹ yọ.Iṣẹ́ ìwádìí yìí ríi pé lára okùnfà ìṣòroìbára ẹni-gbé-pọ̀ ajẹmọ́dìílé ni àìnífẹ̀ẹ́, àìnísùúrù, àìkọ́mọ-lẹ́kọ̀ọ́-ilé tó àtiàìníṣẹ́. Iṣẹ́ ìwádìíyìí gbà pé ìlò àwàdà kó ipa ribiribi nínú yíyanjú ìṣòro ajẹmọ́dìílé dé àyè kan gẹ́gẹ́ bí ó ṣe hàn nínú àwọn ìwé àmúlò. Ọ̀nà àbáyọ tíIṣẹ́ ìwádìíyìí dábàá ni pé kí àwùjọ fi àyè gba ìlò àwàdà gẹ́gẹ́ bíi ijánu fúnìwà ìbàjẹ́, kí ẹ̀mí ìkóra-ẹni-níjàánu lè fẹsẹ̀ múlẹ̀ síi nínú ìdílé, kí àwọn tí pẹ̀tẹ̀pẹ́tẹ̀ àwàdà bá sì ta sí lára gbìyànjúláti ṣe àtúnṣe.
Dabo's Bow: An English Rendition of Bakan Dabo by Aminu Ladan Abubakar (ALA)
This work presents an interpretation of ‘Bakan Dabo’ by Aminu Ladan Abubakar (ALA). The praise-poem reiterates praise epithet to the 13th Emir of Kano, late Ado Bayero (1963-2014). The phrase ‘Baka+n+Dabo’ consists ‘Baka’ (bow), linker -n, and ‘Dabo’; the second Emir of Kano after the Jihad of Usman Ɗanfodiyo in the 19th Century. In general, the traditional epithet ‘Bakan Dabo’, has a historical association, royal significance, metaphorical meaning, and it is connected to regalia of Kano Emirate. The original composition praises the late Ado Bayero with ancestral honour and nobility of ‘Sarkin Kano’ late Sulaimanu (1807/1808-1819), -a flag bearer who was succeeded by the lates Ibrahim Dabo (1819-1846), Usman (1846-1855), Abdullahi (1855-1882), Usman (1919-1926), Alhaji in person of Abdullahi Bayero (1926-1953), and ‘Sarkin Kano’ Muhammadu Inuwa (1963) to mention a few. The aim of this paper is glocalization, for comparatists to lay hands on ‘Dabo’s Bow’ a rendition which preserves poetic and cultural identity of the original song to non-Hausa-readers. The researchers listened to the song ‘Bakan Dabo’ several times, then transcribed and translated it, they also consulted books on the history of Kano, books on literary appreciation and utilized the theory of personhood, purposely to examine praised on being a person, personal identity, moral status, moral virtue, and communitarianism of a monarch to strengthen values and leadership in Hausa society, as well as to appreciate joy, happiness, and harmony of the monarchs’ subjects due to enduring legacy of their leadership style.
Aminu Ladan Abubakar, Bakan Dabo, Dabo’s Bow, English Rendition, and Personhood.