English Language and Bilingualism

The language contact situation in Nigeria has rubbed off on the languages within the ethnic and tribal groups. The influence of English language is evident in the language situation in Nigeria. Local varieties have been realized as a result of code-mixing and switching of bilinguals within different speech communities in Nigeria. English as the official language in Nigeria has continued to play diverse roles. It is the language of education, government, administration, commerce, journalism, legislative and international deliberations; it lives alongside other Nigerian languages, interacts with them and adapts itself to the Nigerian environment. This interaction with Nigerian languages; Igbo, Hausa and Yoruba etc. led to pidginization, nativization and acculturation of English. Igbo language and culture has also influenced the English language. This book is a purview of the speech behavior of the educated Igbo -bilinguals who may not be able to speak Igbo language without code switching or mixing of English language. The speech behavior of the educated-Igbo bilinguals has raised a lot of criticism.

Autorentext

Eke was born at Nkwebi Ohafia in Ohafia Local Government of Abia State, Nigeria. He graduated from the University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria with a Bachelor's Degree in English Language, and a Masters Degree from the University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria. He teaches English language at Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Nigeria.