CHANGE AND MANAGEMENT OF CHANGE: THE CASE WITH THE IGBO LANGUAGE

Abstract

Change is an irresistible phenomenon in human life. Even human nature, his appearance, temperament, positions and status also change. Language and culture which are key components of human essence and a means for human interaction cannot avoid changing, more so as humans are exposed to contacts with different people, concepts and ideas, all introducing one new information or another that require to be imbibed into the culture. Ordinarily, in culture and language, change is germane as it helps to sustain culture and languages and also helps them growand match with current trends. It equally checkmates a people’sbelief and way of lifeand increases their viability. Thus far, linguistic and cultural change is very necessary and should therefore be encouraged. But, it needs be stated that occasionally, this change either happens for no apparent reason or explanation; and such change may not favour the survival of the language or culture of the people. Such situation as this often times brings about confusion, anarchy, abandonment or extinction of the language and culture. However, some language changes are necessary and inevitable for the positive growth and sustenance of any language. This paper canvasses for proper management of linguistic and cultural change, particularly with respect to the Igbo language and culture. It is therefore a clarion call on linguists and social anthropologists to rise up to their duties and do the needful to encourage the survival and development of the Igbo language and culture through proper management of change. The paper aims to rekindle the spirit of the owners and users of the languagetowards proper adjustment and posture for their language and culture in times of change. The paper finally recommends a change that will bring about positive growth and development which will project the Igbo language and culture to the wider world.