Language Endangerment: Threat of the Hausa Language on the Ngizim Language

Abstract

This study investigates the phenomenon of language endangerment, with focus on the threat to the Ngizim language spoken in the Southern and Eastern regions of Potiskum Local Government Area, Yobe State, Nigeria, by a dominant Hausa language. Crystal's insights and predictions for the future, alongside Fishman's causes of language endangerment, provide a theoretical foundation for the study. Data are obtained from different Age Grades in Yerimaram and Arikime localities speaking Ngizim through oral interview and observation methods. Wurm’s classification of levels of language endangerment forms basis for data analysis. The findings reveal a concerning trend of language shift from the Ngizim language to the Hausa language, especially among the younger generation. There is need to preserve and revitalize Ngizim through community support, development of good language policy, and media promotion. The study has contributed to a broader understanding of language endangerment dynamics and provided insights for developing strategies to safeguard endangered languages, including Ngizim, in the face of linguistic assimilation and cultural influences.