CULTURAL EXPRESSION IN DIGITAL SPACES: THE EVOLUTION OF NIGERIAN IDENTITY THROUGH ENGLISH ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media has revolutionized cultural expression, providing a platform for the rapid evolution of linguistic identities in Nigeria. This article examines how Nigerian English (NE), Nigerian Pidgin (NP), and indigenous language hybrids are utilized on platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, and TikTok to negotiate and assert a distinct national identity. Through a qualitative analysis of user-generated content, hashtags, and memes, the study identifies a creative hybridization of language that prioritizes relatability and humor over formal English norms. The study argues that these digital platforms foster a sense of belonging and "in-group" solidarity, serving as a dynamic, modern medium for documenting and disseminating Nigerian culture, particularly among youth. It explores how digital Nigerianisms, such as Japa, Sapa, Vawulence, and Gbas Gbos, reflect socio-cultural realities of resilience, socioeconomic hardship, and pop culture, creating a shared national experience.
Keywords: Digital, Evolution, Cultural, Identity, Social Media.