A Pragmatic Analysis of Selected Igbo Customary Greetings: A Paradigm of Akokwa Salutations

Publication Details

Publication Date

10/11/2026

Volume / Issue

Vol 1, Issue 6 (2026)

Article No.

065

Journal

British Journal of Contemporary Research

DOI

https://doi.org/10.67693/BJCR-FCCW5HP4

Received

23 Oct 2026

Views

26

Downloads

12

Abstract

This study examines the pragmatic functions of selected Igbo customary greetings. In the Igbo society and among the Akokwa people of the Southeast, Nigeria, greetings are not merely polite expressions but indispensable communicative acts that embody the values, beliefs, norms and worldview of the Igbo people. They are used to establish social relationships, express solidarity, convey respect, negotiate identity, and reinforce cultural values. Existing studies on Igbo greetings have largely focused on their sociolinguistic and anthropological significance, with limited attention to their pragmatic functions within indigenous discourse. The research adopts a qualitative descriptive research design and draws data from participant observation, oral interview with elders, communal leaders and native speakers. 20 naturally occurring customary greetings in different social contexts were analyzed. The analysis is anchored on the pragmatic theories of J.L Austin and John Searle’s Speech Acts and Brown and Levinson’s (1987) Politeness theory. Both theories elucidate the phenomenon of language in culture. Findings reveal that Igbo customary greetings are rich and sophisticated cultural discourses whose meanings are beyond the literal expressions. In addition, they perform multiple illocutionary functions such as blessings, solidarity, respect, reconciliation, hospitality and social cohesion. Their interpretations and meanings are context-dependent. Furthermore, they preserve the indigenous cultural values and are essential instruments for peace-building and conflict management. Recommendations include the inclusion of pragmatics of Igbo greetings in Igbo studies curriculum, promoting more literature on Igbo customary greetings and application of pragmatics to African languages other than Igbo.

License

This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License . Free to read, share, and adapt with attribution.