The Impact of Linguistic Diversity on Intercultural Communication in Nigerian Organizations: A Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/jir.v2i2.3174Keywords:
Linguistic Diversity, Intercultural Communication, Nigerian Organization, Workplace Diversity, Language BarriersAbstract
Nigeria stands out globally for its profound cultural and linguistic diversity, encompassing over 500 distinct languages. Among these, the Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo languages serve as predominant, with several hundred others classified as minority languages. This diversity not only reflects the country’s ethnic richness but also presents unique challenges and opportunities in organizational settings. However, this study examines deeply into the challenges and opportunities presented by Nigeria’s linguistic diversity within organizational contexts. It explores how language barriers impact daily interactions, teamwork, and overall organizational effectiveness. Drawing from a thorough review of scholarly literature sourced from reputable databases like Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate, the study identifies prevalent issues and examines potential solutions. By addressing these complexities, the study aims to offer a comprehensive framework for understanding the elaborate dynamics of intercultural communication shaped by linguistic diversity in Nigeria. It emphasizes the critical need for proactive strategies that embrace diversity as a driver of innovation, collaboration, and sustainable organizational growth in today’s interconnected global business landscape. The findings underline the importance of fostering inclusive communication practices, promoting cultural sensitivity, and enhancing language proficiency among employees to effectively navigate and leverage Nigeria’s diverse cultural milieu for organizational success.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Ufuoma Kori-Siakpere, Oghenetega Gokeme, Rosemary Ojone Omale, Aloye Racheal Aniah, Prince Majizu Ojukwu, Matthew Okache Okache
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