Stakeholder Engagement in Yoruba Language Promotion Programmes in Borno State

Language promotion programmes operating in minority contexts depend critically on effective stakeholder engagement to build community legitimacy, secure resources, and sustain implementation over time. This study examines stakeholder engagement practices in Yoruba language promotion programmes targeting Yoruba communities in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria. Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected from programme managers, community leaders, school administrators, and Yoruba community association representatives through semi-structured interviews and programme document analysis. The study applies stakeholder theory and community engagement frameworks from programme management practice to evaluate how Yoruba language promotion initiatives identify, communicate with, and involve their key stakeholders. Existing literature on minority language promotion in Nigeria has focused primarily on programme design and linguistic outcomes, with the stakeholder engagement and programme management dimensions being underanalysed. This study addresses that professional practice gap. The research investigates whether Yoruba community associations in Borno are adequately consulted in programme design, whether government education authorities are effectively incorporated, and whether there are mechanisms for ongoing stakeholder feedback. The study further examines how the broader security and displacement context of Borno State affects programme stakeholder relationships. Findings are expected to reveal that community association leaders are the most engaged stakeholder group, while formal government stakeholders are inconsistently involved due to bureaucratic constraints and security context disruptions. Recommendations will address an evidence-based stakeholder engagement framework for minority language promotion programmes in conflict-affected states. Keywords: stakeholder engagement, Yoruba language promotion, Borno State, programme management, minority language.