A LINGUISTIC STUDY OF THE ENGLISH-YORUBA TRANSLATION OF THE NIGERIAN NATIONAL ANTHEM (OCTOBER, 1978 - MAY, 2024)

Abstract

A national anthem represents an official emblem that marks the
sovereignty of every country. The translation of an anthem into
Nigerian languages is therefore relevant, considering its significance
as a national symbol vis-à-vis the proficiency and socio-political
relevance of English literacy among the masses. This study examines
the Yoruba language as a target language (TL) text of the Nigerian
national anthem against the English language as a second language
(ESL) text in terms of meaning transfer and on the backdrop of the
translator’s skill, method and communicative competence as an ESL
speaker. Vinay and Darbelnet theory was adopted as theoretical
framework in the qualitative study, while the data were analysed
descriptively. Findings reveal that the process and product of the
Yoruba text are in line with some necessary translation
requirements, while results also highlight certain aspects to be
addressed. Some identified shortcomings, therefore, include
number or person correlation problem, equivalence, meaning shift,
inappropriate linguistic and cultural mix as well as undefined level
of the target users among other issues preventing expected usage and
realisation of objectives. However, the study not only serves the
Yoruba speakers, but could also promote general knowledge and
scholarship. Suggestions, therefore, include the need for engaging
trained translators as critical documents are better entrusted to
multiple experts for quality results, while grey areas should be
reconsidered with a view to attaining a balanced, meaningful and
accurate representation of the Nigerian national anthem in the
Yoruba language.