The Nigerian Directory

Japa

• Meaning: To run away or escape.
• Origin: This term is believed to have originated from the Japanese word “japa-japa,” which means “run away quickly.”

Wahala

• Meaning: Trouble or problems.
• Origin: Derived from the Hausa language word “wahala,” which means trouble or disturbance.

Ginger

• Meaning: To encourage or motivate someone.
• Origin: This term is widely used in Nigerian Pidgin English and is believed to have been derived from the English word “ginger,” meaning to add excitement or enthusiasm.

Chop Knuckle

• Meaning: To give a fist bump as a form of greeting or agreement.
• Origin: The term is a combination of “chop,” which means to eat in Nigerian Pidgin English, and “knuckle,” referring to the act of tapping knuckles in a greeting.

Naija

• Meaning: A slang term for Nigeria.
• Origin: A shortened version of “Nigeria” that is commonly used in casual conversations.

Gbera

• Meaning: To carry out a task or action vigorously.
• Origin: Popularized by Nigerian music, particularly the Yoruba genre, where it’s used to encourage energetic dancing.

Ojoro

• Meaning: Cheat or fraudulent activity.
• Origin: Derived from the Yoruba language and commonly used to describe dishonest actions.

Shine Your Eye

• Meaning: Be cautious and alert.
• Origin: Suggests being watchful and careful, as if shining a light on a situation.

Paddy

• Meaning: A close friend or buddy.
• Origin: Likely derived from the English word “pal” or “buddy.”

Babalawo

• Meaning: A traditional Yoruba priest or diviner.
• Origin: From the Yoruba language, where “baba” means father, and “alawo” means one skilled in a profession or craft.

Area Boy

• Meaning: A streetwise or tough individual, often involved in informal activities.
• Origin: Commonly used in Lagos, particularly referring to young men in urban areas.

Omo Naija

• Meaning: A Nigerian or someone of Nigerian origin.
• Origin: “Omo” means child in Yoruba, and “Naija” is a slang term for Nigeria.

Kpatakpata

• Meaning: Disorderly or chaotic.
• Origin: Derived from the Yoruba language and widely used to describe a messy situation.

Okada

• Meaning: A motorcycle taxi or commercial motorcycle.
• Origin: From the Igbo language, where “okada” means to pop a wheelie on a motorcycle, which is a common sight in Nigerian traffic.

Toasting

• Meaning: The act of flirting or expressing romantic interest in someone.
• Origin: A term used in Nigerian dating and social culture.

Ajebutter

• Meaning: A term used to describe someone who is from a wealthy or privileged background.
• Origin: The term “aje” means “wealth” in Yoruba, and “butter” signifies softness or being pampered.

Gidi

• Meaning: A slang term for Lagos, Nigeria’s largest and most populous city.
• Origin: “Gidi” is a short form of “Lagos Island” and is commonly used by Lagos residents.

E go beta

• Meaning: It will get better or improve.
• Origin: A phrase used to offer hope and encouragement during challenging times.

Wetin dey happen

• Meaning: What’s going on or what’s happening?
• Origin: A casual way of asking about current events or situations.

Pepper Dem Gang

• Meaning: A group of people who are stylish, confident, and stand out.
• Origin: Popularized by Nigerian musician Olamide’s song “Pepper Dem Gang,” which celebrates people with swagger.

Sabi

• Meaning: To know or be skilled at something.
• Origin: Derived from the English word “savy,” it is commonly used to express knowledge or expertise.

Lasgidi

• Meaning: Another slang term for Lagos.
• Origin: An informal nickname for Lagos, often used in songs and colloquial speech.

Maga

• Meaning: A gullible person who can be easily deceived or scammed.
• Origin: Likely derived from the English word “mug” or “maggot,” it is often used in the context of fraud.

H-factor

• Meaning: Humility, often used to remind someone to be humble.
• Origin: A term that encourages modesty and respect for others.

Malo

• Meaning: To like or love something.
• Origin: Popularized by Nigerian artist Tiwa Savage’s song “Malo,” which means “Don’t Go” in Yoruba.

Gbese

• Meaning: Debt or owing someone money.
• Origin: Derived from the Yoruba language, where it means financial liability.

E dey body

• Meaning: Feeling confident or having a strong sense of self.
• Origin: A term used to express self-assuredness.

Eyan le ku

• Meaning: A reference to being cautious and looking out for oneself.
• Origin: A Yoruba phrase that emphasizes self-preservation.

Agbero

• Meaning: A local or street thug, often associated with bus parks and informal transport sectors.
• Origin: Derived from the Yoruba language, where it means “street tough.”

Skoin-skoin

• Meaning: Something that is fake or of low quality.
• Origin: A slang term often used in markets to describe counterfeit goods

Ajepako

• Meaning: Someone from a less privileged or lower socio-economic background.
• Origin: The term is the opposite of “ajebutter” and suggests someone who is not pampered.

K-leg

• Meaning: Describing someone with bow legs or legs that form a ‘K’ shape.
• Origin: The slang refers to the shape of legs and is often used playfully.

Nack

• Meaning: To have sexual intercourse.
• Origin: A colloquial term commonly used in informal conversations.

Ghana Must Go

• Meaning: A large, colorful, checkered bag.
• Origin: Named after the “Ghana Must Go” bag, which was used to deport Ghanaians from Nigeria in the 1980s. The bag became a symbol of migration.

OYO

• Meaning: On Your Own, indicating self-reliance or self-sufficiency.
• Origin: The abbreviation OYO is commonly used in Nigerian slang to suggest independence.

Wahala dey

• Meaning: Trouble is brewing or there’s a problem.
• Origin: A common phrase used to alert someone about an issue or trouble.

Owambe

• Meaning: A lavish or extravagant party, especially weddings or social events.
• Origin: Yoruba slang, often used to describe grand celebrations.

E sure me die

• Meaning: I am very sure.
• Origin: A Nigerian slang phrase that emphasizes confidence and certainty.

Sho mo age mi?

• Meaning: Do you know my age?
• Origin: A phrase used humorously, often in response to someone asking for a favor or trying to take advantage of someone’s perceived age.

Kpali

• Meaning: Money.
• Origin: Derived from the Igbo word “kpali,” which means money or wealth.

Ojoro X 3

• Meaning: A term for cheating or dishonesty, often used humorously.
• Origin: The repetition emphasizes the level of dishonesty.

Waka

• Meaning: To go or walk.
• Origin: Commonly used to describe moving or traveling from one place to another.

Yawa

• Meaning: Trouble or disgrace.
• Origin: Often used to describe an embarrassing or problematic situation.

Bole

• Meaning: Grilled plantains or yams, typically sold by street vendors.
• Origin: A popular Nigerian street food.

Baff

• Meaning: To take a shower or bathe.
• Origin: Often used in the context of personal hygiene.

Para

• Meaning: To become extremely angry or agitated.
• Origin: This slang term is often used to describe someone who is highly upset or furious.

Magun

• Meaning: A Yoruba term for a mystical or spiritual curse placed on someone to prevent sexual infidelity.
• Origin: It is rooted in Yoruba cultural beliefs and practices.

Koro-Koro

• Meaning: Very clear or evident.
• Origin: The slang is used to emphasize the clarity or obviousness of a situation or fact.

Dem Say Dem Say

• Meaning: Rumors or hearsay.
• Origin: Often used when discussing unverified or speculative information.

Slaps

• Meaning: A situation where someone receives a physical or verbal reprimand.
• Origin: Derived from the act of slapping, but it can also refer to criticism.

Wetin You Carry?

• Meaning: What are you up to or what are you carrying?
• Origin: A question asking about someone’s intentions or what they are doing.

Sare

• Meaning: To leave or go away.
• Origin: Commonly used in Lagos and southwestern Nigeria.

Flenjor

• Meaning: A combination of “flex” and “enjoy,” often used to express enjoyment or having a good time.
• Origin: Popularized in Nigerian music and slang.

Blow My Mind

• Meaning: To be amazed or deeply impressed.
• Origin: Inspired by the song “Blow My Mind” by Nigerian musician Davido.

Sapa

• Meaning: To be broke or financially depleted.
• Origin: A term used to describe a state of financial hardship.

Palava

• Meaning: A problematic or difficult situation.
• Origin: Derived from the Pidgin English word for trouble or conflict.

Baby Oku

• Meaning: A beautiful or attractive woman.
• Origin: “Oku” means “fire” in Igbo, and the term is used to describe someone with a fiery or attractive personality.

Bobo

• Meaning: A young man, often used informally to refer to a boyfriend.
• Origin: Derived from the Yoruba word for a young male child.

Skrrr

• Meaning: An expression used to indicate speed or acceleration.
• Origin: Popularized in Nigerian music and slang.

How E Take Happen?

• Meaning: How did it happen or how did it occur?
• Origin: A question asking for an explanation or details about a particular event.

Certainly, here are more Nigerian slangs, continuing from the previous list (61-75):

61. Belle

    • Meaning: Slang for the stomach or abdomen.
    • Origin: Used in the context of pregnancy or a protruding stomach.

62. Chop Belleful

    • Meaning: To eat to one’s satisfaction.
    • Origin: A phrase indicating that someone has had enough to eat.

63. Kai Kai

    • Meaning: Locally distilled alcoholic spirits.
    • Origin: Often used to refer to homemade or inexpensive alcoholic drinks.

64. Agidi

    • Meaning: A term for someone who is stubborn or difficult to deal with.
    • Origin: Derived from the Yoruba word “agidi,” which means someone who is unyielding.

65. No Wahala

    • Meaning: No problem or it’s okay.
    • Origin: A common phrase used to reassure someone that everything is fine.

66. Pepper Soup

    • Meaning: A slang term for an attractive or spicy woman.
    • Origin: Referring to a woman who is hot or appealing.

67. Konji

    • Meaning: Strong sexual desire or lust.
    • Origin: A Nigerian slang term often used to describe a state of sexual arousal.

68. Area Mama

    • Meaning: A woman who is street-smart or savvy.
    • Origin: Refers to a woman who is knowledgeable about life in the streets or local areas.

69. Jollof Rice

    • Meaning: A colorful or engaging event or situation.
    • Origin: Named after the popular Nigerian dish, jollof rice, which is vibrant and flavorful.

70. Bo Bo

    • Meaning: A timid or fearful person.
    • Origin: Often used to describe someone who is easily frightened or lacks courage.

71. See Finish

    • Meaning: To become too familiar or overly critical of someone.
    • Origin: Describes a situation where someone’s flaws or weaknesses are exposed.

72. Alingo

    • Meaning: A dance style or a fun and energetic movement.
    • Origin: Popularized by Nigerian music and dance culture.

73. Las-las

    • Meaning: Ultimately or in the end.
    • Origin: A term used to describe the final or conclusive outcome of a situation.

74. Werey

    • Meaning: A crazy or insane person.
    • Origin: Often used playfully or jokingly to describe someone’s eccentric behavior.

75. Jeje

    • Meaning: To take things easy or proceed gently.
    • Origin: A Yoruba word commonly used to encourage a relaxed approach to life.

76. Ginger Your Swagger

    • Meaning: To boost your confidence or style.
    • Origin: Combining “ginger” to encourage and “swagger” for confidence and style.

77. Banger

    • Meaning: A hit song or a popular track.
    • Origin: Used in the context of music to describe a song that’s trending.

78. Chache

    • Meaning: A term for stubbornness or defiance.
    • Origin: Commonly used in southwestern Nigeria.

79. Oja

    • Meaning: A local market or a place of trade.
    • Origin: Referring to traditional marketplaces.

80. Abeg

    • Meaning: An informal way of saying “please” or requesting something.
    • Origin: Derived from “I beg.”

81. Bereks

    • Meaning: Exaggeration or making a big deal out of something.
    • Origin: A slang used to downplay someone’s claims.

82. Amaka

    • Meaning: A beautiful or ideal woman.
    • Origin: Often used to describe a woman who is considered perfect.

83. Padi

    • Meaning: A friend or buddy.
    • Origin: A variation of “paddy” or “pal,” commonly used in casual conversations.

84. Jah Bless

    • Meaning: A form of blessing or well-wishing.
    • Origin: Derived from Rastafarian culture and commonly used in Nigerian slang.

85. Barbing Saloon

    • Meaning: A hair salon or barbershop.
    • Origin: A slang term for a place where haircuts and grooming are done.

86. Tear Rubber

    • Meaning: Brand new or fresh.
    • Origin: Used to describe new and unused items, particularly products with their original packaging intact.

87. Nwa Baby

    • Meaning: A child or a young person.
    • Origin: Often used playfully to refer to a young individual.

88. Na Who Know Road E Epp

    • Meaning: The importance of knowing one’s way or being street-smart.
    • Origin: A phrase emphasizing the value of local knowledge and familiarity with a place.

89. You Fall My Hand

    • Meaning: You disappointed me or let me down.
    • Origin: Often used to express dissatisfaction with someone’s actions.

90. Pim Pim

    • Meaning: A tiny or negligible amount.
    • Origin: Used to describe something that is very small or insignificant.

91. Kobalize

    • Meaning: To spend money lavishly or extravagantly.
    • Origin: A term used to describe someone who is not hesitant to spend money.

92. Pepe Dem

    • Meaning: To spice things up or add excitement.
    • Origin: Often used in the context of making something more interesting or lively.

93. Kwam

    • Meaning: A slang term for a rumor or gossip.
    • Origin: Commonly used when discussing unverified or speculative information.

94. Wahala Be Like Bicycle

    • Meaning: Trouble or problems are persistent.
    • Origin: A humorous phrase likening trouble to a bicycle that never stops.

95. Buru

    • Meaning: A slang term for an unintelligent or foolish person.
    • Origin: Often used to describe someone who lacks common sense.

96. Shine Ya Eye

    • Meaning: To be vigilant and watchful.
    • Origin: A phrase encouraging people to stay alert and cautious.

97. Dey Kampe

    • Meaning: To be relaxed and comfortable.
    • Origin: A phrase indicating a state of calm and contentment.

98. Blow My Whistle

    • Meaning: To inform or expose wrongdoing.
    • Origin: Used to describe the act of reporting someone’s actions.

99. Pepperbody

    • Meaning: Someone who is assertive and confident.
    • Origin: Used to describe individuals who carry themselves with boldness.

100. Sharply – Meaning: To act quickly or promptly. – Origin: A term encouraging swift action.

101. Yawa Go Gas – Meaning: Trouble or a problematic situation is likely to occur. – Origin: A phrase suggesting that a difficult situation is impending.

102. Chin-chin – Meaning: Small talk or gossip. – Origin: Commonly used when discussing casual conversations or rumors.

103. E Nor Get Part 2 – Meaning: There is no continuation or sequel. – Origin: A phrase indicating finality or the end of a situation.

104. No Be Lie – Meaning: It’s the truth or it’s true. – Origin: A way of confirming the accuracy of a statement.

105. Shege – Meaning: A derogatory term for someone who is considered a nuisance or troublemaker. – Origin: Often used in the context of expressing annoyance or frustration.

106. Iyalaya Anybody – Meaning: A derogatory phrase expressing strong disapproval or disrespect. – Origin: This slang is used to show disdain or disregard for someone.

107. Chow – Meaning: Food or a meal. – Origin: A casual term for describing eating or a specific dish.

108. E Shock You? – Meaning: Are you surprised or taken aback? – Origin: A question often used to inquire about someone’s reaction to a surprising revelation.

109. Up NEPA – Meaning: An exclamation of joy and excitement when electricity is restored after a power outage. – Origin: A reference to the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) in Nigeria.

110. Maggi Cube – Meaning: A term for an attractive or appealing woman. – Origin: The brand Maggi is associated with adding flavor, so the term describes someone with flavor.

111. Chai – Meaning: An expression of surprise, shock, or disappointment. – Origin: Commonly used as an exclamation when something unexpected happens.

112. Okada – Meaning: A motorcycle used for transportation. – Origin: Named after Okada, a city in Nigeria where motorcycle taxis are prevalent.

113. Owo – Meaning: Money. – Origin: Derived from the Yoruba word for wealth or cash.

114. Bless Up – Meaning: To offer blessings or well-wishes. – Origin: A phrase of encouragement or goodwill often used in informal conversations.

115. Bata – Meaning: A term for shoes or footwear. – Origin: Used to describe any form of shoes or slippers.

116. Wahala For Who No Sabi – Meaning: Trouble for those who are ignorant or uninformed. – Origin: A humorous way of emphasizing the importance of knowledge and awareness.

117. Na True – Meaning: It’s true or accurate. – Origin: A phrase used to affirm the truth of a statement.

118. Agama Lizard – Meaning: A term for a cunning or deceitful person. – Origin: The agama lizard is known for its crafty behavior.

119. Chew Gum – Meaning: To gossip or engage in idle talk. – Origin: A slang term used to describe casual chatter or rumors.

120. Na So E Be – Meaning: That’s just the way it is. – Origin: A phrase indicating acceptance of a situation or reality.

121. Bo Bo Juice – Meaning: A slang term for counterfeit or fake products. – Origin: Used to describe items that are not genuine or authentic.

122. Shade – Meaning: To criticize or make fun of someone. – Origin: Often used when someone is teasing or mocking another person.

123. Jaiye – Meaning: To enjoy life or have a good time. – Origin: A Yoruba term used to express the idea of living life to the fullest.

124. Ogbanje – Meaning: A mischievous or troublesome person. – Origin: Rooted in Igbo folklore, where an “ogbanje” is a child with a predisposition for causing trouble.

125. Mumu Button – Meaning: To be easily fooled or gullible. – Origin: A humorous way to describe someone who is naive or easily manipulated.

126. Sokoo – Meaning: To obtain or acquire something. – Origin: Often used when referring to getting a deal, bargain, or an opportunity.

127. Jeun S’Oke – Meaning: To enjoy life to the fullest or to indulge. – Origin: A Yoruba phrase conveying the idea of savoring life’s pleasures.

128. Ginger Up – Meaning: To motivate or encourage someone. – Origin: A term used to boost someone’s enthusiasm or energy.

129. Sabinus – Meaning: Informants or those who provide information. – Origin: Often used in the context of sharing news or gossip.

130. Bobo Juice – Meaning: Swagger, style, or confidence. – Origin: Used to describe someone who exudes confidence and charm.

131. Street No Dey Friendly – Meaning: The streets can be harsh or unforgiving. – Origin: A phrase indicating the challenges of navigating life in difficult circumstances.

132. Choke – Meaning: Overwhelmed or stuffed. – Origin: Often used to describe feeling full after eating or having too much of something.

133. Olohun – Meaning: A Yoruba term for “God” or a divine being. – Origin: Used in expressions of surprise, shock, or wonder.

134. Magga – Meaning: A foolish or gullible person who is easily taken advantage of. – Origin: Commonly used to describe someone who is easily deceived.

135. Amebo – Meaning: A person who enjoys gossip or spreading rumors. – Origin: Often used to describe individuals who are nosy or overly curious about others’ affairs