DOCUMENTING FISHING METHODS AND TERMINOLOGIES: A LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL STUDY OF THE OBOLO COMMUNITY

Language documentation plays a crucial role in preserving endangered linguistic and cultural heritages across the world. This study examines the documentation of the Fishing Methods and Terminologies. Fishing is a traditional activity among the Obolo people of Rivers State, Nigeria. The research investigates the linguistic and cultural features embedded in the methods and activity of fishing in Obolo. Through participant observation, interviews with native speakers, and audio-visual recordings, the study documents the Fishing activity as an example of cultural-linguistic expression and a tool for language preservation. The findings of this paper reveal that documenting traditional activities such as fishing methods provides a valuable framework for revitalising endangered language and preserving intangible cultural heritage.