CODE MIXING AND CODE SWITCHING IN NOLLYWOOD INDUSTRY: IMPLICATIONS TO INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT

Code mixing and code switching are prominent linguistic phenomena in the Nollywood industry, reflecting the complex multilingual landscape of Nigeria. Nollywood, as the second-largest film industry globally, exerts a profound cultural and linguistic influence on its diverse audience, showcasing the interaction between English and indigenous languages such as Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa. This paper examines the implications of these linguistic practices on the development and preservation of Nigeria's indigenous languages. The study explores how Nollywood’s frequent use of code switching and code mixing shapes linguistic attitudes and the transmission of indigenous languages in an evolving media landscape. While these practices provide a platform for indigenous languages to remain visible in popular media, they may also contribute to the growing dominance of English, limiting opportunities for pure indigenous language use. By combining indigenous languages with English, Nollywood productions tend to prioritize broader audience accessibility, which can lead to the simplification or distortion of native language expressions. Furthermore, this paper discusses how this blending of languages affects language acquisition, cultural identity, and linguistic pride, especially among younger generations. As Nollywood continues to expand its global reach, the influence of its language practices extends beyond Nigerian borders, impacting how diaspora communities perceive and maintain their linguistic heritage. Through content analysis of Nollywood films, this study investigates the broader sociolinguistic implications of code mixing and code switching. It argues that while Nollywood has the potential to serve as a vital medium for indigenous language promotion, concerted efforts must be made to safeguard linguistic diversity and to elevate the status of indigenous languages within the industry. The findings call for collaboration between filmmakers, linguists, and policymakers to ensure that Nollywood contributes positively to indigenous language revitalization, enhancing the cultural and linguistic legacy of Nigeria.