The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has introduced 22 new Nigerian words in its latest update for January 2025, marking another significant milestone in the recognition of Nigerian English on a global scale.
Words such as Japa, Agbero, Suya, and Abi, which are deeply rooted in Nigerian culture and language, are now officially part of the OED’s extensive lexicon.
This update highlights the dynamic influence of Nigerian English and its growing relevance in the international linguistic community.
The published update includes a total of 22 words indigenous to Nigeria, each reflecting the nation’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity.
These words capture everyday expressions, societal roles, and local culinary delights, offering a glimpse into the Nigerian way of life.
With this addition, the OED continues its tradition of documenting the evolving nature of the English language while celebrating its global variations.
Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a lecturer at the University of Nigeria and an Oxford English Dictionary consultant, played a pivotal role in this update.
As one of the project’s major facilitators, Ugwuanyi proudly announced the inclusion of the Nigerian words on his X page.
His involvement was instrumental in drafting most of the new entries and providing their correct pronunciations, ensuring the authenticity of their representation in the OED.
“The wait is over!” Ugwuanyi wrote:
“I’m thrilled to announce that the @OED has officially published its latest updates, featuring an amazing collection of #NigerianEnglish words that beautifully reflect Nigeria’s culture, creativity, and the unique ways we express ourselves as Nigerians.”
He added: “This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also had the incredible opportunity to provide their pronunciations! So, when you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my voice bringing these words to life.”
Among the newly added words is the infamous 419, widely recognized as a term for fraudulent activities or a person who engages in fraud.
Another notable entry is agbero, commonly used to describe motor park operatives or informal transport workers in Nigeria’s bustling car parks.
These words, alongside others, paint a vivid picture of Nigeria’s social, economic, and cultural environment.
The latest OED update underscores the importance of Nigerian English in shaping the global linguistic landscape.
It not only validates the uniqueness of Nigerian expressions but also provides a platform for the world to appreciate the richness of Nigeria’s linguistic heritage.
Below is a complete list of the new Nigerian words now enshrined in the Oxford English Dictionary, a testament to the country’s vibrant and ever-evolving language:
419, n.
Naija, adj. & n.
suya, n.
abi, adv.
adire, adj. & n.
agbero, n.
area boy, n.
cross-carpet, v.
cross-carpeting, n.
eba, n.
Edo, n. & adj./ 2
gele, n./2
jand, n.
jand, v.
janded, adj.
japa, n.
japa, v.
Kanuri, n. & adj.
kobo, n./2
yahoo, n./2
yahoo boy, n.
yarn dust, v.
