Research
In October 2024, Wamiri conducted a qualitative case study in Lagos to understand how language shapes the way Nigerians interact with AI. The research revealed a striking truth: the language of technology is not just a medium — it is the gateway to adoption, trust, and inclusivity.
Our study involved participants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. They engaged with AI systems in Standard English, Nigerian Pidgin English, and Yoruba. The findings were clear:
Pidgin English boosted engagement — participants spoke more freely, trusted the AI more, and described the interaction as “talking to a friend.”
Standard English created barriers — many struggled to express themselves or felt excluded when AI responded in overly formal language.
Yoruba sparked excitement but exposed gaps — users valued attempts at indigenous language, though technical limitations highlighted the need for better modeling of tonal and dialectal complexity.
From this, we introduced the Language-Mediated Technology Adoption (LMTA) Framework, which explains how language lowers hesitation, builds trust, and helps people integrate technology into their daily lives.
The implications go far beyond Nigeria. For developers, policymakers, and educators, the message is simple: language is not optional in tech design — it is fundamental.
Our recommendations:
Prioritize Nigerian Pidgin English in AI development.
Invest in indigenous languages like Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo.
Design AI that adapts to cultural context, not just words.
Address accessibility barriers like data costs, latency, and device limitations.
Foster inclusive, ethical ecosystems where communities shape the tools meant for them.
AI adoption will only accelerate when technology speaks the language of its users — literally and culturally. By championing linguistic inclusion, Nigeria has the opportunity to lead the world in shaping AI that reflects humanity in all its diversity.
At Wamiri, we remain committed to this mission: using modern technology to expand opportunity.
