IMPACT OF MIGRATION ON TRANSLATION PRACTICES: A STUDY OF LANGUAGE MEDIATION IN MULTILINGUAL COMMUNITIES

Christopher Chinedu Nwike, Ihechinyere Ebulu Ndubuisi, & Kosisochukwu Emmanuella Nnaka — (Page 129-142)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of migration on translation practices in Nigeria’s multilingual urban centres – Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt. It examines the frequency and effectiveness of translation methods, as well as user satisfaction with the accessibility of translations. Using a descriptive mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 300 Igbo participants (100 per city) through surveys, ethnographic fieldwork, and case studies. These individuals live in areas where Pidgin English and other indigenous languages such as Yoruba and Hausa are commonly spoken. The study focuses on how these languages facilitate communication among speakers in these urban contexts.

Descriptive statistics reveal that migrants frequently use translation tools, with machine translators like Google Translate and DeepL being the most common, followed by informal human interpreters such as family members. These choices are influenced by cost and limited access to professional translation services. Participants expressed significant dissatisfaction with the availability of translation services in public sectors, citing inadequate multilingual support in critical areas such as healthcare, education, and the legal system. While machine translation offers convenience, human translation is perceived as more effective, especially in culturally nuanced or high-stakes situations.

An emerging preference for hybrid translation models, which combine AI efficiency with human accuracy, reflects changing user expectations. Theoretically, the study reframes translation as a fundamental right rather than a service. Practically, it advocates for multilingual policy reform, investment in hybrid translation infrastructure, and community-based language mediation. These measures are crucial for inclusive communication and social integration in Nigeria’s linguistically diverse urban settings.

Keywords: Language Mediation, Machine Translation Practices, Migration, Multilingual Communities, Professional Interpreters