Is English Language Really the Appropriate Language for Health Mobilization in Calabar Metropolis?

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of the use of the English language for health mobilization in Calabar Town. It also aimed at establishing the effectiveness of the language used in health mobilization in the town. The study was carried out in Calabar Municipality and Calabar South Local Government Areas of Cross River State. The research instruments used for this work were questionnaire, interview and general observation. Since one of the targets of the Millennium Development Goals is the attainment of health for all by the year 2015, it is therefore important that health issues are communicated appropriately through the choice of a language that will be understood by the target population. From the findings of this research, it is believed that the English language alongside the Nigerian pidgin and Efik language help in sensitizing the residents of Calabar better, because Calabar is a melting pot of people from different linguistic backgrounds.