THE USE OF HAUSA LANGUAGE IN INDIGENOUS MEDIA AND THE CHALLENGES OF

Abstract

The Hausa language, which is one of the most populous indigenous languages in Nigeria, has enjoyed a greater utilization and patronage in the recent campaign against the global outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic in the year 2021. The indigenous media particularly vernacular newspapers, radio and television have through their various special programmes in the Hausa language campaigned vigorously against the global pandemic. Through survey method, it is observed that the services of several Hausa artists such as singers, film makers and playwriters were employed to reach the target audience. It is against an insinuation that coronavirus pandemic has adversely affected the Nigerian indigenous languages that this presentation, argues contrary and submits that rather than negative effect, the global pandemic has had positive impact on the Nigerian language specially the Hausa language. For it has further intensified innovation and creativity among Hausa speaking artists who have composed and presented new songs, jingles, lyrics and films in Hausa language which contributed in the advancement of Hausa literature and culture and showcase the Hausa is a dynamic and flexible language that always fits into global dynamism as far as information and communication dissemination is concerned.