Gen z learners and the decline of formal English usage in Nigeria: challenges and educational implications

Abstract

The increasing influence of digital communication technologies has significantly transformed language use among Generation Z learners in Nigeria. Social media platforms, instant messaging applications, online entertainment, and artificial intelligence tools have reshaped the patterns of English language learning and usage among young Nigerians. While these technologies promote communication, creativity, and global interaction, they have also contributed to the decline of formal English usage, particularly in academic and professional contexts. This paper examines the factors responsible for the declining use of formal English among Nigerian Generation Z learners and explores the educational implications of this linguistic shift. The study adopts a descriptive and analytical approach using existing literature on digital communication, sociolinguistics, English language education, and Generation Z learning culture. Findings reveal that excessive dependence on social media slang, abbreviations, code-switching, Nigerian Pidgin, and AI-assisted communication has negatively affected learners’ writing, spelling, grammar, and formal communication competence. The paper concludes that although digital technology has expanded opportunities for English language learning, there is a need for balanced pedagogical strategies that integrate digital literacy with formal language instruction. Recommendations include improved digital literacy education, increased reading culture, teacher retraining, and responsible integration of technology in English language teaching and learning.