Decolonising Climate Change Communication Language for Sustainable Environmental Management in Plateau State, Nigeria's Jos North Local Government Area

Abstract

The effects that climate change is having on current and future generations are multifaceted, with new repercussions constantly surfacing that put human and environmental health at a low point. Due to their oblivious environmental practices, rural areas are more susceptible to climate effects. The language used in communication is examined to determine how effective it is at guiding people through this natural slip to promote understanding of climate causes, mitigation, and adaptation. To encourage environmental awareness and action, it also becomes important to record indigenous languages. In Jos North, Plateau State, Nigeria, the study examines decolonising the Language of Climate Communication for Sustainable Environmental Management. With a foundation in Participatory Communication Theory, the study employed a combination of questionnaires and Focused Group Discussions (FGD) to gather data. Seven wards in the research area were used to distribute a total of 70 questionnaires to 70 responders. Sixty-seven completed surveys were validly returned for constructive analysis. Simple percentages were used to analyse the data and record it in tables. Thirty-five people participated in FDG, five of them represented each of the seven wards. Respondents stressed the importance of using indigenous languages to teach them about the causes, effects, mitigation strategies, and adaptation measures of climate change. The dissemination of information tends to resonate with them, instilling a sense of identity and inspiring them to take action. The study came to the conclusion that to increase participation in climate discussions, rural people must be included, and the best communication channel should be used. To guarantee complete inclusivity in promoting environmental sustainability, it was suggested that both governmental and non-governmental actors urgently need to enhance climate change communication in indigenous languages, employing visual, aural, and graphic arts, whenever possible, with cultural signs.