Pragmatic and Discourse Functions in Jenifa’s Diary

Existing studies on comedies in Nigeria have focused mainly stand-up comedy, with little attention devoted to situation comedies. This study, therefore, investigates the pragmatic acts that are used reflect inherent societal issues revealed under guise of humour a Nigerian sitcom, Jenifa’s Diary. Drawing excerpts purposively sampled from first three seasons sitcom and subjecting them analytical tools Jacob Mey’s Meyer’s functions humour, study shows discourse social moral consciousness which address incivility, domestic violence, poor etiquette, lying indecent dressing. These achieved through practs warning, informing, enculturating advising, communication named enforcement differentiation. The concludes sitcoms not just scripted amuse viewers but also state nations where they set.