Investigation of the Effects of Language Attrition among Jar Native Speakers of Hausa in Bauchi State

Hussaina Musa Gar, Haladu Umar

Abstract


This study investigated language attrition among Jar native speakers of Hausa in Bauchi State, Nigeria, focusing on the extent of Hausa dominance, causes of Jar language decline, and its effects on cultural identity. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 395 Jar speakers—including elders, adults, and youths—across four Local Government Areas through a structured questionnaire titled Language Attrition and Cultural Identity Questionnaire (LACIQ). Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that the Jar language is rapidly losing ground, particularly among the younger generation who prefer Hausa in daily interactions, education, religion, and commerce. Major causes of this shift include urbanization, intermarriage, inadequate mother tongue education, and weak parental transmission of the language. The research further showed that this linguistic erosion has led to the loss of traditional values, cultural practices, and effective communication between generations. The study concluded that the ongoing decline of the Jar language endangers the community’s cultural heritage and identity. It recommended that government agencies, community leaders, and linguists collaborate to revitalize the Jar language through educational inclusion, documentation, and media promotion to ensure its survival as a symbol of cultural pride for future generations. 

Investigation of the Effects of Language Attrition among Jar Native Speakers of Hausa in Bauchi State


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