Japa, Agbero, Suya: 20 Nigerian Words Shake Up the Oxford English Dictionary
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has once again acknowledged the dynamic and evolving nature of Nigerian English by incorporating 20 new words and expressions into its latest update.
This development underscores the global recognition of Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage and its significant influence on contemporary English.
*A Milestone in Linguistic Recognition*
The inclusion of terms such as “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” “419,” and “abi” reflects the everyday vernacular of Nigerians, capturing the essence of the nation’s socio-cultural and economic landscapes.
These words, deeply embedded in Nigerian Pidgin, street slang, and indigenous languages, have transcended local usage, earning a place in one of the world’s most authoritative dictionaries.
This achievement is not merely about adding new entries to a dictionary; it signifies a broader acceptance and validation of Nigerian English as a legitimate and influential variant of the English language.
It highlights the dynamic nature of language evolution, where local expressions gain international prominence, enriching the global linguistic tapestry.
*The Role of Nigerian English Consultants*
A pivotal figure in this accomplishment is Dr. Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant to the OED. Dr. Ugwuanyi played an instrumental role in drafting the definitions and providing pronunciation guides for these entries, ensuring that the words are accurately represented and accessible to a global audience. His contributions exemplify the importance of native speakers in documenting and preserving the nuances of their language.
In his announcement on LinkedIn, Dr. Ugwuanyi expressed his excitement: “I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) 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.”
*Understanding the New Entries*
To appreciate the significance of these additions, it’s essential to delve into the meanings and contexts of some of these words:
*Japa:*
Defined as “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries (especially those in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity.” This term has gained prominence in recent years, reflecting the increasing trend of Nigerians seeking better prospects abroad.
*Agbero:*
Described as “a person (usually a boy or young man) who works as a tout, typically at car parks and bus stops, collecting money from passengers and drivers, and ushering passengers onto vehicles.” The term paints a vivid picture of the informal transportation sector in Nigeria.
*419:*
Known globally, “419” refers to “fraud (now usually perpetrated on the internet) involving requests for advance payment in return for a substantial share of a large amount of money, which ultimately is never given.” The term originates from Section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, which deals with fraud.
*Abi:*
A versatile expression used at the end of a statement to seek agreement or confirmation, similar to “right?” or “isn’t it?” in standard English.
*Eba:*
A staple food in Nigeria made from cassava flour, commonly enjoyed with various soups.
*Area Boy:*
A term used to describe a young man, often part of a group, who engages in disruptive or delinquent activities in urban areas.
*Yahoo Boy:*
Refers to an individual, typically a young man, involved in cyber fraud or internet scams.
*Suya:*
A popular spicy meat skewer originating from Northern Nigeria, enjoyed across the country and beyond.
*Gele:*
A traditional Nigerian headwrap worn by women, often styled elaborately for special occasions.
*Kobo:*
The smallest unit of the Nigerian currency, the naira, equivalent to one hundredth of a naira.
*Naija:*
An informal term referring to Nigeria or Nigerian, reflecting national pride and identity.
*Jand:*
A colloquial term referring to the United Kingdom, often used in the context of travel or migration.
*Cross-Carpet:*
A political term describing the act of switching allegiance from one political party to another.
*Adire:*
A traditional Nigerian textile, hand-dyed using various resist-dyeing techniques, known for its vibrant patterns.
*Kanuri:*
Refers to both an ethnic group in Nigeria and their language, predominantly found in the northeastern region.
*The Cultural Significance*
The incorporation of these words into the OED is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and linguistic diversity of Nigeria. It acknowledges the country’s contributions to the global lexicon and the unique ways Nigerians express themselves. This recognition also highlights the dynamic nature of language, evolving to encompass expressions that capture contemporary realities and cultural nuances.
For instance, the term “japa” encapsulates a significant socio-economic trend, reflecting the aspirations and challenges faced by many Nigerians. Similarly, words like “suya” and “gele” showcase elements of Nigerian cuisine and fashion, offering the world a glimpse into the nation’s rich traditions.
*Implications for Nigerian English*
The OED’s recognition of these terms elevates Nigerian English from a regional dialect to a globally acknowledged variant of the English language. It challenges the traditional notions of linguistic purity and standardisation, embracing the fluidity and adaptability of language as it intersects with culture, identity, and globalisation.
This development also has educational implications, encouraging the inclusion of Nigerian English in academic curricula and promoting its study as a legitimate field of linguistics. It fosters a sense of pride among Nigerians, affirming the value of their linguistic expressions and cultural identity.
*A Historical Perspective*
This isn’t the first instance of Nigerian English gaining global recognition through the Oxford English Dictionary. In January 2020, the dictionary added 29 Nigerian words and expressions, including “chop-chop,” “okada,” “k-leg,” and “severally.” That milestone marked the beginning of a journey that has now culminated in the latest additions, further solidifying Nigeria’s linguistic contributions to global English.
These earlier inclusions set the stage for the current update, where more contemporary words such as “japa” and “yahoo boy” reflect ongoing societal trends, from migration to cyber fraud. The dynamic evolution of these terms, often shaped by Nigeria’s unique socio-political realities, underscores the adaptability of Nigerian English to reflect the zeitgeist of its people.
*Globalisation and the Spread of Nigerian English*
The incorporation of Nigerian words into the OED is also a testament to the impact of globalisation. With millions of Nigerians in the diaspora, these words have traveled beyond the country’s borders, becoming part of the lexicon of Nigerian communities worldwide. Social media platforms, Nollywood, and Nigerian music—particularly Afrobeat—have further amplified the reach of these expressions, introducing them to a global audience.
For instance, songs from Afrobeat legends like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage often feature Nigerian English terms, making them accessible to fans across continents. Similarly, Nollywood films, which are widely consumed in Africa and beyond, frequently employ these words in their dialogue, further embedding them into popular culture.
*The Role of Pidgin English in Nigerian Linguistics*
Many of the newly added words, such as “abi,” “yarn dust,” and “agbero,” are rooted in Nigerian Pidgin English—a linguistic phenomenon that has evolved over centuries. Nigerian Pidgin serves as a lingua franca in a country with over 500 languages, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to communicate effectively. It blends English with indigenous languages and street slang, creating a vibrant and expressive mode of communication.
The recognition of these Pidgin-derived words in the OED validates the linguistic ingenuity of Nigerians. It also highlights the relevance of Pidgin English as a living, evolving language that continues to shape the identity of its speakers.
*Cultural Identity and National Pride*
The addition of these words to the OED also carries profound cultural significance. It affirms the global relevance of Nigerian culture, instilling a sense of pride among citizens. Words like “suya” and “gele” are emblematic of Nigerian traditions, offering a window into the country’s culinary and fashion heritage. Their inclusion serves as a reminder of the rich, multifaceted nature of Nigerian identity.
Moreover, terms like “japa” and “419” reflect the realities of contemporary Nigerian society, from the aspirations of its youth to the challenges posed by socio-economic factors. These words capture the resilience, creativity, and resourcefulness of Nigerians as they navigate their unique circumstances.
*Challenges and Criticisms*
While the recognition of Nigerian English by the OED has been widely celebrated, it also raises important questions about representation and ownership. Some critics argue that the inclusion of terms like “yahoo boy” and “419” perpetuates negative stereotypes about Nigeria, focusing on issues like cybercrime rather than the country’s positive contributions to global culture and innovation.
Others have questioned the role of Western institutions like the OED in validating non-Western languages. While the inclusion of Nigerian words is a step toward inclusivity, it also underscores the power dynamics inherent in global linguistic recognition. Who decides which words are worthy of inclusion, and what criteria are used to make these decisions? These are questions that merit further exploration.
*The Future of Nigerian English*
The latest update to the OED is undoubtedly a milestone, but it is also a reminder of the work that lies ahead. For Nigerian English to gain sustained recognition, efforts must be made to document and standardise its usage. Scholars, linguists, and educators have a crucial role to play in this regard, ensuring that the language continues to evolve while preserving its unique characteristics.
The inclusion of Nigerian words in the OED should also inspire a broader conversation about the importance of linguistic diversity. As more non-Western languages gain recognition, it is essential to celebrate the richness of the world’s linguistic heritage and promote mutual respect and understanding.
*In conclusion,* the addition of 20 Nigerian words to the Oxford English Dictionary is more than a linguistic achievement; it is a cultural and historical milestone. It reflects the creativity, resilience, and dynamism of the Nigerian people, whose expressions have transcended borders to enrich the global English lexicon. From “japa” to “suya,” these words tell the story of a nation that continues to make its mark on the world, one word at a time.
As Nigerians celebrate this recognition, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the power of language as a tool for cultural preservation and global connection.
In a rapidly changing world, the words we use matter—they shape our identities, tell our stories, and bridge the gaps between cultures. For Nigeria, this is just the beginning of a journey toward greater linguistic and cultural recognition on the global stage.