Title: Neologisms in Nigerian English: A Study of Electoral Slogans
Authors: Daka, Temple Christiana, Osinachi O. Wokoma
Volume: 10
Issue: 8
Pages: 208-215
Publication Date: 2026/08/28
Abstract:
. Neologisms are a critical part of many peoples' everyday lexicon and the use of neologism is increasing in higher proportion each day especially in the political arena. The rise of new words can be attributed to the spread of the media, language contact, the internet and globalization. This study ascertained neologisms in Nigerian English: a study of electoral slogans used across two Nigerian general election cycles (2019 and 2023) in Rivers State. This study analyzed the speech acts used by governorship aspirants in Rivers State. It also provides insight on how political neologisms contribute to Nigerian English. 30 neologisms drawn from diverse sources including campaign materials, social media content, political speeches and media coverage were analyzed. The speech acts (direct and indirect) analysis reveals that assertive and commisive were the mostly used (42%), followed by directive (5%), expressive (4%) and declarative (1%). Furthermore, data from the study revealed that political neologisms are a significant driver of the dynamic evolution of Nigerian English, reflecting and shaping the country's unique sociopolitical landscape. Coined to address political and cultural realities that Standard English cannot fully capture, these new words and expressions expand the vocabulary and serve specific communicative, ideological, and social functions. The study recommended that educators should be trained to recognize and discuss linguistic innovation. Lexicographers and dictionary compilers should develop systematic criteria for neologism inclusion based on frequency, persistence, and cross-contextual usage and monitor electoral discourse for emerging terms requiring documentation. Policymakers and language planners should recognize Nigerian English innovations in official language planning, support documentation and standardization efforts for local varieties promote multilingual approaches to political communication and develop policies supporting linguistic diversity in democratic discourse.