(Giant of Africa) 12 popular slang only Nigerians can understand

Each country has unique traditions, as well as slangs, that are spoken across the country.

There are slangs in Nigeria that are unique to secondary schools, university life and even country regions.

Foreigners might have trouble understanding these slangs and local people may have difficulty describing them. Below are some slangs peculiar to street life in Nigeria.

1. Marlian:

Marlian is a slang generated by the popular Nigeria artist Naira Marley. The slang “Marlian” was taken from his name Marley. According to the controversial singer, a “Marlian” is someone who follows his footstep.

2. Over-Sabi:

This is a term that refers to someone who is a busy-body or teasing someone who exaggerates his / her intelligence/knowledge. E.g. Over-Sabi…..Who asked you?

3. Jara:

Jara is a noun derived from the Yoruba language and at the seller’s discretion it means adding extra or giving a freebie after something has already been purchased or paid for.

4. Ashewo:

This is a prostitutes slang. Also, it can be a derogatory term.

5. Ajebutter(Ajebo):

Ajebutter, ajebo, ‘bota’ or ‘botti’ refers simply to someone born with a silver spoon. It can be translated loosely to mean “bourgeoisie”

6. Mafo:

A popular street language that means; boldness. It is used when someone is proving to be daring.

7. Osha pra pra:

This greeting is used when one praises another which is translated loosely to mean “you are dope!” This is often used to hail/greet a friend or acquaintance walking by in the street.

8. Kolo:

This word means going insane or mad. According to meaning this can mean literally or metaphorically.

9. Ehen!!:

This exclamation is viewed differently, depending on the context it was used in. It might mean “I get it,” “and so?” “yes,” “okay,” “continue,” “as I said,” “that reminds me,” and so on.

10. Lepa:

Lepa is a slang reminiscent of a sexy slim woman. Orobo is the opposite of lepa. It refers to a thick/sexy plump woman. It can be used as a derogative statement, too.

11. Abi:

Abi is a slang which acts like punctuation. They are mostly used after a statement for confirmation, thus transforming it into a question.

12. Amebo:

This word is used to refer to a person who likes and can not be trusted to gossip or spread gossip. You can also use it to refer to gossip itself.