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40+ Most Popular Slang Words Used In Nigeria
There are many slang words used in Nigeria, and it can be challenging to keep up with all of them. Check out some of Nigeria’s most popular slangs, meaning, and origin.
If you’ve ever been to Nigeria or interacted with Nigerians, you must have noticed their unique way of communicating with each other. From Lagos to Kano, Port Harcourt to Jos, and everywhere in between, slang is the language of choice for most Nigerians.
Slang words are so popular in Nigeria that they often find their way into everyday conversation and are used to express a range of emotions, from agreement to humor. But have you ever wondered where these slangs come from?
There are many slang words used in Nigeria, and it can be challenging to keep up with all of them. New words are continually emerging, while older ones tend to fade away.
Some of these slang words originate from a random remark someone makes on the street or in music. Some people pick them up quickly, and before you know it, the slang becomes a trend that everyone uses. Examples of these trending slangs include Zazu from a song by Portable, Sapa, God Abeg, Who Dey, and so on.
It’s no surprise that Nigerian social media is always full of fun and interesting slangs. But don’t worry, I have compiled a list of the most popular slang words used in Nigeria, along with their meanings, to help you understand the street vocabulary.
Most Used Slangs In Nigeria
1. Idan
‘Idan’ is word derived from Yoruba language which translates to “magic” or “wonder” in English. However, it has evolved into a slang word, thanks to its recent widespread adoption on social media.
According to the street vocabulary, the slang term ‘idan’ refers to someone who can do extraordinary things in a seemingly magical way. It is commonly used to describe some who is highly respected because of their influence, wealth, and power.
2. E Choke
“E Choke” is a popular slang in the Nigerian street vocabulary and was introduced by the famous Nigerian singer, Davido.
Literally, “E Choke” means “It chokes”, but when used as a street language, it is an exclamation used to express surprise or admiration when something is overwhelmingly impressive or surprising.
For example, if someone sees an incredible dance move or hears a great song, they might say “E Choke” to show their excitement. It can also be used in situations where something is unexpectedly funny or shocking.
So, if you ever hear someone say “E Choke”, you’ll know that they’re blown away by something impressive or surprised by something unexpected. It’s a fun and expressive way to communicate in Nigerian street culture!
3. E Resist Airflow
“E Resist Airflow” is a slang phrase that has gained popularity as a follow-up to “E Choke.” While both slangs have the same meaning, “E Resist Airflow” was introduced by another Nigerian artist, Wizkid.
When someone says “E Choke” or “E Resist Airflow,” it means that they are overwhelmed or excited to the point of feeling choked or suffocated. It’s a way of expressing strong emotions, such as being blown away by a performance or a situation. It’s like saying that something is so good that it takes your breath away.
Even though the two slangs have slightly different origins, they are used interchangeably in conversations. So whether you say “E Choke” or “E Resist Airflow,” you are essentially saying the same thing.
4. We Meuuve
“We Meuuve” is a phrase used to motivate people and it means “life goes on”.
It originated from the BBNaija reality show in 2020, where one of the contestants, Vee Adeyele, used it during an argument with her lover, Neo Akpofure. She asked him to “meuuve from the door” when he tried to stop her from leaving the room.
Since then, Nigerians have adopted the phrase as a way of saying that no matter what happens, life goes on. When people share sad stories, they often end it by saying “We Meuuve” to show that they are moving forward.
5. Tule
“Tule” is another slang word in the street vocabulary that was popularized by Davido.
Davido used this word in a video he made when reacting to a news article about his rift with another musician, Burna Boy, in Ghana. In the video, Davido shouted, “Tule Joor, Tule Jare.”
So, what does “Tule” mean? It’s a Yoruba word that translates to “free me,” “release me,” or “leave me alone.” After Davido’s video went viral, many Nigerians began shouting “Tule” on social media for a chance to win N2m in cash that Davido promised to anyone who could replicate his original video.
In the street vocabulary, “Tule” is often used to tell someone to stop bothering you or drop a topic. It’s a way to ask for space and peace.
6. Who Dey Breeett?
This is yet another slang invented by Davido. “Who dey Breeett?” is a phrase in Pidgin English which translates to “Who is breathing?”
However, in the street vocabulary, the phrase carries a deeper meaning. It questions why anyone would still be breathing after being exposed to something amazing or surprising. It is similar to “E choke”
Davido made this phrase after Wizkid and Burna Boy achieved an incredible feat, each winning an award at the 2021 Grammy.
Ideally, “Who dey breeett?” is not just a simple question, but a way of expressing awe and amazement.
7. Ma Fo
“Ma Fo” is a slang word made popular by the Nigerian singer Naira Marley. The term originates from the Yoruba language and literally means “Don’t break.” However, its actual meaning is more like “Don’t be intimidated” or “Don’t worry”
The phrase has become a part of Nigerian street vocabulary, and people use it to encourage and support each other. Even though it is a simple phrase, it has stood the test of time and is still popular today.
8. Chop Breakfast:
The phrase “Chop Breakfast” has a literal meaning and a colloquial meaning in Nigeria. Literally, it means that everyone will eventually have breakfast. But the colloquial meaning has evolved over time to mean that in life, everything happens in turn and everyone will have their fair share of experiences, including heartbreak.
When someone uses the phrase “She has chopped breakfast“, it means that the person has experienced a heartbreak. It’s a way of expressing sympathy or empathy for the person who has gone through a difficult emotional experience.
The phrase has become popular in Nigerian social media circles, and it’s often used to describe someone who has been unlucky in love. So if you hear someone using the phrase “Chop Breakfast”, now you know what it means!
9. KPK/OPP
KPK is an abbreviation for “Ko Po Ke?” which translates to “Is it not plenty?” in English. The slang word originated from a song by a Nigerian artist named Rexxie, who featured another artist named Mohbad.
In the song, Rexxie asked “Ta lo sope ko po ke?” which means “Who says it is not plenty?” Nigerians picked up on this catchy phrase and began using it in their conversations.
When Nigerians use KPK in their sentences, it is used to determine what is plenty or praised in the sentence. For example, if someone sees a beautiful picture online and comments with KPK, they mean to say, “Who says this beauty is not plenty?” or “Is this not plenty?”
The standard response to KPK is OPP abbreviated as (O Po Pa) or OPG (O Po Gan), which both mean “it is very plenty.” Therefore, when someone responds with OPP or OPG, they are agreeing with the statement made and affirming that what was praised in the sentence is indeed plenty.
10. Japa
The slang “Japa” is derived from the Yoruba language; it means to run very quickly from a dangerous situation or to escape from it. Japa can also be used to describe avoiding a difficult or unpleasant situation. For instance, if someone is invited to a party they do not want to attend, they might say “I have to Japa from that party”.
Moreover, Japa can mean to emigrate, to leave a country or a place and move to another country or place. For example, if someone is tired of living in Nigeria and wants to move to Canada, they might say “I want to Japa to Canada”.
11. Sapa
‘SAPA’ is a term that many Nigerians can relate to, as it reflects the harsh economic realities that many face on a daily basis. The term is commonly used in Nigerian Pidgin English to describe a situation where someone is extremely broke or poor, usually as a result of spending too much money on unnecessary things.
When someone is experiencing ‘SAPA’, they might struggle to make ends meet and find it difficult to afford basic necessities like food and shelter. It is a feeling of hopelessness that can linger for an extended period, making it hard to break free from the cycle of poverty.
Some people believe that ‘SAPA’ is like a spirit that targets individuals, making it challenging for them to prosper financially. This ‘spirit of poverty’ can be a difficult hurdle to overcome, but with proper financial planning and discipline, it is possible to break free from its grasp.
12. Aza
The word “Aza” is a popular slang in Nigeria that refers to a person’s bank account details or digits. It is commonly used by Nigerians in informal settings and conversations.
For example, if someone asks you to “send your Aza”, they are simply asking you to provide them with your bank account number.
This slang has become very popular among Nigerians, particularly the youth, as it is seen as a cool and trendy way to ask for someone’s bank account details.
13. Ment
The word “ment” is a slang term that originated from the English word “mental”. It is commonly used in Nigerian Pidgin English to question someone’s sanity or to describe them as crazy.
For example, if someone is acting strange or doing something unusual, you might ask them “You dey ment?” which means “Are you crazy?”. Similarly, if a group of people are behaving in an erratic manner, you could say “All of una don ment” which means “You all are crazy”.
It’s important to note that the use of this slang term can be considered rude or offensive in some situations, so it’s best to use it with caution and only among friends or in casual settings.
14. Fall My Hand
This slang is used when someone is disappointed by a person, an event, or something.
15: We Outside
The slang “We outside” is commonly used to describe someone who is out and about with their friends, engaging in fun and exciting activities on the streets. It can also be used to refer to people who are having fun outside the country, particularly when it’s posted on social media.
So when someone captions their post with “We outside,” it means they are having a great time with their friends or by themselves, and they want to show off how much fun they’re having. The slang is often used by young people who enjoy hanging out with friends and trying new things.
The phrase can also imply a sense of freedom and independence, as it suggests that the person is not tied down to any particular place or responsibility. It’s important to note, however, that the slang can also be used in a negative context, such as when people engage in dangerous or illegal activities.
16. Wahala Be Like
“Wahala be like…” is one slang that might transcend 2021. It has lasted longer than other slang. Even “be calming down”, as hot as it was when it trended, fizzled out with time.
17. Mugu / Maga
This is used to describe someone regarded as a fool or someone who is very gullible or being conned.
18. Yahoo
This is a term used in Nigeria to describe internet fraudsters.
19. Inside Life
It started with self-acclaimed Marlians. It is the reality of things. When there is a remarkable secret that can’t be explained, someone says ‘Inside life’.
20. Omo!
“Omo!” is a popular expression that is commonly used to show excitement, shock, and surprise among other things. It is a versatile word that can be used in many different situations.
One interesting thing about the word “Omo!” is that it can save you from having to explain yourself. For example, if you are in a group and something surprising happens, you may not know what to say. Instead of remaining silent and appearing rude or disinterested, you can simply say “Omo!” to show that you are impressed or surprised.
It is a great way to express your emotions without having to use many words. It is also a way to connect with others who may be feeling the same way as you. So the next time you find yourself in a surprising situation and you want to show your excitement or shock without having to explain yourself, remember to use the word “Omo!” and everyone around you will understand.
21. Emi Lokan
Bola Tinubu, who was a presidential candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC), helped popularize a Yoruba slang called “Emi lokan”. During a gathering in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he used the phrase to make a case for himself ahead of the APC presidential primary.
“Emi lokan” means “It is my turn” in Yoruba and has gained popularity on social media since Tinubu’s comment in June 2022. Nigerians have now adopted the phrase in various contexts, mostly relating to ownership.
The phrase has become a way for people to express their entitlement to something, such as a job or a position in society. It can also be used to indicate that someone has been patiently waiting for something and now it is finally their turn to receive it.
22. Dey play
The phrase “Dey play” means that someone is wasting time and being unserious.
When people share videos showing off their accomplishments like new houses or cars with the caption “Dey play”, it means they think the people should stop wasting time and work harder towards achieving their goals. It’s like a friendly reminder to stay focused and not get distracted by unimportant things.
23. Mad O
This slang might sound derogatory to someone who is not well familiar with the street vocabulary but it is a harmless slang. When you hear someone say ‘mad o!’, they are not refering to someone who is mentally ill. Rather, it is an expression made when something unbelievable occurs or is said.
It is one of the most popular slang in Nigeria that has made its way into the Urban Dictionary.
24. Gbam
Nigerians use this slang to show their agreement with a speech that is being made.
25. Baff Up:
This is used to describe the way someone is flamboyantly dressed. When someone asks you to ‘baff up’, the person means you should look good.
26. I Go Change Am For You
This slang originates from Pidgin English and is commonly used to warn someone to exercise caution and not to make them angry or face the consequences.
27. Pepper Don Set:
A popular Naija slang that means ‘money has come’ or ‘I now have so much money. In this slang, ‘pepper’ refers to money.
28. Wetin:
It means ‘what?.
29. Jara:
Jara is derived from the Yoruba language, and it means to add extra or give a freebie after something has already been bought or paid for.
30. You Get it! If You Don’t Get It Forget About It:
It is used to wave off someone who does not understand a conversation.
31. UAR:
UAR became a buzzword in June 2021 when the Nigerian National Assembly reportedly received a proposal to change the country’s name from Nigeria to the United Africans Republic (UAR). Trust Nigerians, the UAR became another trend on social media, as everyone on social media was leaving Nigeria for UAR.
32. God When:
This is another trend that Nigerians are loving. For some, it’s a prayer, especially used when you desire and admire something you’ve seen, but it is commonly used to refer to a dream relationship.y.
33. Lori Iro
If someone is telling lies to Nigerians and they know it, they simply say “lori iro.” This phrase comes from the Yoruba language and it means “lies.”
This slang became popular in Nigeria after a man dressed as a preacher exposed some of the empty promises made by people in romantic relationships. He used the phrase “lori iro” to describe these lies and it quickly caught on among Nigerians.
Nowadays, “lori iro” is used in everyday conversations to call out someone who is lying or to express disbelief in what someone is saying. It’s a useful phrase to have in your arsenal if you ever find yourself in a situation where you suspect someone might not be telling the truth.
34. Werey Dey Disguise
This is another Yoruba pidgin street slang, ‘Werey’ in Yoruba means acting irrationally or crazy. In totality “werey dey disguise” means, the act of camouflaging or appearing or speaking out in contrast to what you really mean people can see right through their being fake.
35. Doings
“Doings” is a word used to express admiration for someone who appears to be living life to the fullest and showing off their wealth. It is often used when someone is flaunting their success or enjoying the finer things in life.
Additionally, “doings” can also refer to a person who is generous and proactive in getting things done. This could mean someone who is willing to go above and beyond to help others or someone who is a go-getter and makes things happen.
36. Wa Ti Ma Gbo
Abbreviated as ‘WTMG’ is a coinage from Adekunle Gold’s hit song ‘High’ wherein he featured Davido. Wa Ti Ma Gbo is a Yoruba word that means, “You would have heard.‘’
37. Something Hooge
Comedian Sabinus introduced this slang to the Nigerian street vocabulary due to the manner he says something huge, but with an emphasis on the ‘huge’ in the majority of his skits. It is used to express anticipation or an expectation.
38. Zazu Zeh
Zazoo Zeh is the title of a song by Portable, a street guy who refers to himself as “Idamu Adugbo” (The streets trouble), featuring Poco Lee and Olamide. However, Zazu is originally a Hebrew name for a girl meaning movement.
39. Dorime
“Dorime” is a slang word derived from the French new age musical project titled “Ameno” by Era. In Nigeria today, Dorime is used to describe extravagant spending.
40. Sora Fun Obirin
The slang term “sora fun obirin” was popularized by a viral video of a preacher in Akure, Nigeria. The preacher was speaking out against indecent dressing and in the middle of his sermon, he appeared to have a vision.
He crossed to the side of the road and approached a man in his car, warning him to “sora fun obirin ooo,” which translates to “be careful of ladies” This phrase quickly caught on among Nigerian men as a warning or piece of advice to those they consider to be Casanovas or womanizers.
41. Dem No born You Reach:
This slang is used to dare someone so they don’t do something they plan/threaten to do.
42. Bone That Thing
To forget or ignore something.
43. Gbege
A synonym for ‘trouble’
44. Pour Sand Sand For My Garri
Spoil someone’s show or burst someone’s bubble.