Nigerian slangs are like proverbs (if they could be likened as such) that serve as spices to conversations among youngsters and social media users.
PAY ATTENTION: Legit.ng is on a mission to support vulnerable children of Calabar – join the initiative on Patreon, let’s change more lives together!
A bunch of them were coined by those in the nation's music industry. Some examples are Ko Por Kee, Gbese/Gbe Body E, and E Choke. These phrases have not only enriched the Nigerian lexicon but have also become essential in everyday conversations, especially among the youth who are navigating the complexities of modern life.
In this report, Legit.ng presents six of those slangs and what they mean in everyday Nigerian conversations. Understanding these slangs can provide insights into the cultural dynamics of Nigeria and enhance communication with the younger generation.
Understanding Nigerian Slangs
Nigerian slangs reflect the rich culture and diverse backgrounds of the people. They often emerge from music, social media, and popular culture, serving as a playful way of expressing thoughts and feelings. These phrases can carry significant weight, often encapsulating complex ideas into a few catchy words.
For those unfamiliar with these expressions, it can be challenging to grasp the nuances. However, diving into this linguistic phenomenon opens doors to deeper connections and understanding among those who communicate in Nigerian English.
The Popularity of Slangs in Nigerian Music
Nigerian music has played a pivotal role in popularizing slangs. Artists like Rexxie and Naira Marley have introduced phrases that resonate with the youth, making them part of the everyday vernacular. Songs often reflect societal issues, humor, and life experiences, leading to the creation of memorable slangs that fans adopt.
The infectious nature of these slangs often leads to their rapid spread on social media platforms, where they are used in memes, captions, and comments. The evolution of these phrases is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of Nigerian culture.
1. Ko Por Ke
This slang was popularized by a Rexxie's song. It is literally a showoff slang that means there is an abundance of something. It reflects a sense of pride and celebration, often used in contexts where someone wants to flaunt their achievements or possessions.
2. Ninu Aye (Inside Life)
Popularized by Naira Marley, Ninu Aye (inside life) is used when you are about to give examples of things that are common or relatable in society. It highlights the everyday struggles and realities people face, making it a powerful tool for storytelling.
3. Gbese/Gbe Body E
This slang was made mainstream by Zlatan. Now, it serves as a motivational call when you want to encourage someone already exhausted to get things done quickly. It could also mean to show off one’s leg moves, adding an element of fun to the conversation.
4. Our Mumu Don Do
This is a protest slang said when people are fed up with a situation, especially when they have been taken for fools for so long. It captures the feelings of frustration and resilience, resonating with those who feel marginalized or overlooked.
5. Kokere Ninu Aye
Kokere ninu aye loosely translates as nothing is too small to be overlooked. It can fit into any conversation talking about appreciating the little things in life. This saying promotes gratitude and highlights the importance of recognizing small achievements.
6. E Choke
Though this has been covered before, it needs repeating again as the slang now has its emoji on Twitter. The slang, which is used when saying something is great, was coined by Davido. Its popularity reflects how language evolves in the digital age.
Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that the video of a group of Nigerian doctors showing their dance moves to Naira Marley’s I’m Coming song has gone viral online. A Twitter handle @Naija_PR that posted the video tagged it as:
"Our Doctors sef sabi."
While some said that the video was shot in UCH, others claimed it was in OAU. The video got people appreciating the hard work that Nigerian doctors invest in their work, showcasing the lighter side of life amidst serious professions.
Source: Legit.ng
