THE LINGERING LEGACY OF BRITISH COLONIALISM: LANGUAGE SHIFT AMONG IGBO AND YORUBA SPEAKERS IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIA

Abstract

Language remains one of the most enduring legacies of colonialism in Africa. In Nigeria, the elevation of English during British colonial rule significantly altered patterns of language use and contributed to the gradual decline of indigenous languages in formal domains. This study examines the impact of British colonialism on language shift among Igbo and Yoruba speakers, with particular attention to the historical roots and contemporary manifestations of linguistic change. Drawing on qualitative evidence from archival materials and ethnographic data obtained through interviews and online observations, the study explores how colonial language policies institutionalized English in education, administration, religion, and commerce while simultaneously marginalizing indigenous languages. The findings reveal that English continues to enjoy considerable prestige as a language of education, social mobility, and economic advancement. Consequently, many parents prioritize English in the home, contributing to the weakening of intergenerational transmission of Igbo and Yoruba. Although both languages have experienced significant pressure from English, Yoruba appears to have retained greater visibility in the media, religion, and public discourse. The study argues that contemporary language shift in Nigeria is sustained not only by colonial legacies but also by socio-economic structures that continue to reward proficiency in English. It concludes that meaningful language revitalization requires coordinated policy reforms, increased indigenous language education, and stronger community-based efforts to preserve linguistic heritage.