The Irish Language

Language policy and language usage trends in Nigerian education are examined, particularly as they concern the role of Anglo-Nigerian Pidgin (ANP), an inter-ethnic lingua franca. Language policy and practice for official and native languages both before and since Nigerian independence are chronicled. Results of a survey of 240 individuals in six urban centers in southern Nigeria are then reported. The survey gathered information on the respondents' personal characteristics (age, sex, religion, tribe), language(s), contact with ANP, and attitudes toward the promotion of ANP in certain domains and possible adoption as an official language. Findings are detailed here for geographic/tribal regions. It is concluded that about 80 percent of respondents regard ANP as a language, about half think it is a "normal " language, and most see it as a variety of English. About one-fourth approve of its being taught as a subject; one-third would not mind its use as a medium of instruction, and about one-third would like it adopted as an official language. ANP ws the most popular third language among respondents, with school the primary locus of contact with it. (MSE) **************************k******************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document