Abstract
This study explores the role of indigenous
languages in preserving Nigeria’s rich and diverse
cultural heritage, applying an integrated theoretical
framework that combines Linguistic Ecology
(Skutnabb-Kangas & Phillipson, 2017) and the
Digital Language Vitality perspective (Túbọ̀sún,
2023). Linguistic Ecology emphasizes the
interdependence between languages, cultures, and
their sociopolitical environments, asserting that
indigenous languages are crucial ecosystems for the
transmission of identity, values, oral traditions, and
worldviews. Complementing this, the Digital
Language Vitality framework highlights the
importance of digital engagement and
representation in ensuring the continued relevance,
use, and transmission of indigenous languages in the
21st century. Methodologically, the study adopts a
mixed-methods approach, combining ethnographic
fieldwork with digital content analysis. Data will be
collected through interviews with native speakers,
language activists, and cultural custodians across
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