The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) just added 20 Nigerian words that people commonly use in Nigeria.
These new words come from Nigerian Pidgin English, street language, and culture. Many of these words are so common in Nigeria that people use them every day.
For example, “Japa” means when Nigerians move to places like Europe or America for better opportunities. Another common term is “Agbero,” which refers to someone (usually young) who works at bus stops collecting money from passengers. The term “419” is what Nigerians call internet scams, especially ones asking for money upfront.
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One of the experts who helped add these words, Kingsley Ugwuanyi, shared the news on LinkedIn. He wrote: “I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) Oxford Languages | OUP has officially published its latest updates, featuring an amazing collection of Nigerian English words that beautifully reflect Nigeria’s culture, creativity, and the unique ways we express ourselves as Nigerians. “This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also had the incredible opportunity to provide their hashtag#pronunciations! So, when you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my hashtag#voice bringing these words to life.”
The dictionary even includes guides on how to pronounce these words correctly, which is helpful for people who aren’t familiar with Nigerian languages. The complete list of twenty new words includes terms like 419, abi, adire, agbero, area boy, cross-carpet, cross-carpeting, eba, Edo, gele, jand, janded, Japa, Kanuri, Kobo, Naija, suya, Yahoo, yahoo boy, and Yarn Dust.
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