Language Use in the Electronic Media in Borno State of Nigeria

Abstract

This paper discusses the languages used in the electronic media establishments in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital: Borno radio (BR). Borno state Television (BSTV) and Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). The media, especially the electronic media, in their efforts to reach the “grassroots” make use of some specific languages with a view to diffusing programmes and news. Their ultimate objectives are: education, entertainment, edification and enlightment ie 4Es (cf. Brann, 1995). The paper intends to quantify the duration of transmission in these languages thus giving the possibility of comparison. The investigation identifies that BR uses 15 languages. Among them are Hausa and Kanuri for the 4Es; English, Shuwa(Arabic) and Marghi for E1, E2 and E3; Fulfide and Bura/Babur for E1 and E2; German and French are for E3 only. BTV uses 6 languages, Hausa, Kanuri and English (for the 4Es). Indian (Hindu) and pidgin for E3 and Arabic (classical) for E4. NTA also uses 6 languages. Among them Hausa, pidgin and Indian serve foe E3 and Arabic for E4