CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

No society can exist without a language since it is a means of communication among human beings. As human beings develop their linguistic repertoires through series of reinforcement, examples, imitations and precepts. In a strict sense, therefore, language, according to Wilson (2009), is an artificial and consciously organized method of control by the use of symbols and conventions which involve the notion of meaning.  Language, according to Tondo (2002) is a system of conventional, arbitrary symbols by which members of a community communicate with one another. other. Wardhau (1988) defined it as some unitary system of linguistic communication, which subsumes a number of mutually intelligible varieties. Language is an instrument through which members of a given community communicate. Language gives its users the opportunity to communicate with one another in terms of feelings and desires (Linfors, 2009).

Nigeria is one of the countries with myriads of languages. Each ethnic group has its own language with its dialectal varieties. Bamgbose (2007) has estimated about 400 local languages in Nigeria, yet no ethnic group is ready to abandon its language since all languages are taken as veritable instruments of communication among the users. The absence of linguistic unity in the country has therefore led to the emphasis placed on the English language as a major medium of instruction in educational institutions in the country. English language was introduced into Nigeria by the colonial masters to help them administer the colonized people, spread their religion, and carry on their commercial activities. With the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates of Nigeria in 1914, English language became the official language of Nigeria and has continued to perform this function until today. In Nigeria, English is the language of politics, religion, sports, trade, and commerce, education, science, and technology.

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