Paper short abstract:

Naija is one of the commonly used languages in Nigeria. It employs diverse persuasive strategies in everyday communication contexts. This work explores the rhetoric in communication praxis and provides more understanding of human communication, and the nuances of persuasive communication in Nigeria.

Paper long abstract:

Naija is one of the resourceful and dynamic languages of communication in Nigeria. But, often times, when matters of language are considered in the discipline of languages and linguistics, Naija is not considered as a language that requires serious attention. Yet, the influence of Naija can be seen in the lives of the users and also in the diverse languages in Nigeria. The interplay of cultural values, social norms, and power dynamics in shaping communication practices are some of the strengths of Naija. This paper seeks to delve into the interesting realm of rhetoric within communication praxis. By studying how Naija is used to create and employ persuasive messages across diverse situations, this paper aims to gain more understanding of rhetoric beyond Western frameworks; highlight the richness and complexity of persuasive communication in African contexts; provide insights into how Nigerians navigate complex social and political landscapes through persuasive communication; and foster more inclusive and participatory forms of engagements.