The Role Of Language In National Re-Branding: A Sociolinguistic Perspective

Anthony Ayodele Olaoye*
*Department of Linguistics and African Languages, Faculty of Arts, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria.
Periodicity:July - September'2013
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jelt.3.3.2419

Abstract

Language, whether indigenous or foreign, is a marker of identity. The language that a man speaks, the names he bears, the songs he sings, the tribal marks on his cheeks, his country's national anthem, coat of arms and national flags are symbols of personal and national identity. Language education policy, which shapes a man's global and local view and perspective, is instrumental in any national rebranding project. The author posits that there is a correlation between indigenous language and national rebranding project. Language is the shaper of ideas, and dissects nature along lines laid down by our language. In support of this theory of cultural relativism and linguistic determinism, the author posits that the rebranding of a nation can only be achieved through a rebranded language policy, and a well planned and implemented multi-lingual education system. Transformation agenda, in any nation, is best accomplished through the utilization of indigenous languages and literature. The author believes that the battered image of Nigerians and Nigeria can be redeemed by indigenous literary works which are rebuttals of the obnoxious negative branding of Nigerians. National rebranding has the objective of re-orientating Nigerians to imbibe a new spirit of patriotism, a new spirit of abhorring or shunning corruption and following the rule of law. The author has proved that the role of Mother Tongue, and andragogical or political education can rebrand Nigeria. The Federal, State and Local Governments therefore have a role to play. These change agents must also work hand-in-hand with parents, traditional rulers, opinion leaders, religious leaders and educational institutions for an effective rebranding enterprise.

Keywords

Brand, Branding, Rebranding, Cultural Relativism, Linguistic Determinism, Global Views, Moral Re-armament, Mental Decolonization

How to Cite this Article?

Olaoye, A. A. (2013). The Role Of Language In National Re-Branding: A Sociolinguistic Perspective. i-manager’s Journal on English Language Teaching, 3(3), 41-47. https://doi.org/10.26634/jelt.3.3.2419

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