EKWE JONAL

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 (Túb??sún, 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 selected Nigerian communities. Additionally, the study will analyze the presence and use of indigenous languages in digital platforms-such as social media, mobile applications, Wikipedia, and podcasts-to assess their contemporary relevance and vitality. Findings from this study are expected to demonstrate that indigenous languages are not only vehicles for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage—such as folklore, traditional music, rituals, proverbs, and customs—but also adaptable tools in modern digital spaces. The study argues that the deliberate use and promotion of indigenous languages in both physical and digital cultural domains are critical to resisting linguistic marginalization and ensuring intergenerational cultural continuity. This article contributes to scholarship in language planning, digital humanities, and African linguistics, and offers policy recommendations for revitalizing indigenous languages through education, media, and technology. 

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