Multicultural and Intercultural Communication in Nigeria: Facilitations and Issues

This study examined barriers and facilitators of intercultural communication competence (ICC) in a multicultural Nigerian environment. The study adopted a survey research design. A multi stage sampling procedure was used to elicit data from 592 adults in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta state, Nigeria. Regression and correlation statistical tools were used in the analyses. Finding revealed that respondents‘ anxiety was high but their trust, knowledge of foreign culture, knowledge of foreign languages, interpersonal skills and intercultural communication competence were low. Scores on self-efficacy were high on the other hand. Result further revealed that knowledge of the culture and language of people from a foreign ethnic origin has significant influence on intercultural communication competence. The study concludes that findings could provide information sources for orientation efforts or some mass media intervention designers who might be interested in adopting a cultural and language sensitive approach to improving the communication skills-set of individuals who should be targeted.