The Oxford English Dictionary Adds Nigerian Words to Its Lexicon

Nigerian culture and language have a global influence, as evidenced by the addition of 20 Nigerian entries to the Oxford English Dictionary.

Twenty Nigerian terms and expressions have been added to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) in its most recent edition, demonstrating the nation’s linguistic diversity and cultural influence.

The latest additions include words like “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” and

“abi,” which capture Nigeria’s dynamic fusion of street slang, Pidgin English, and cultural phrases. A few of these entries, such as “japa” and “jand,” are acknowledged as both nouns and verbs, highlighting their adaptability in usage. The dictionary also provides pronunciation guides for some words to help non-Nigerians.

Kingsley Ugwuanyi, an English consultant for the OED from Nigeria, shared the news on LinkedIn on Tuesday. Ugwuanyi, who was instrumental in writing the entries and documenting their pronunciations, said he was excited about the effort.

“With an incredible collection of Nigerian English words that beautifully reflect Nigeria’s culture, creativity, and the unique ways we express ourselves as Nigerians, I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) Oxford Languages | OUP has officially published its latest updates,” he wrote. This time, I had the amazing opportunity to not only draft the majority of the words but also supply their pronunciations! You will therefore hear my voice bringing these words to life when you browse the OED online and click on the pronunciations.

Among these, “abi” is listed as “used as a sentence adverb: obviously, clearly; of course.” Additionally, it can be used interrogatively to elicit agreement, acceptance, or confirmation at the conclusion of a statement: “isn’t that so?” “am I not, correct?” etc.

Japa, which means “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries” (especially those in Europe or North America) in pursuit of economic opportunity, work, or additional education, is another well-liked entry.

According to its definition, “suya” is a snack that is typically offered by street sellers and consists of thinly sliced chunks of seasoned beef that are grilled or roasted on a skewer in Nigerian cooking.

The definition of “eba,” another item, is “A type of dough made with boiled cassava meal, typically shaped into balls, forming a staple food in parts of West Africa.”

This most recent version emphasizes how Nigerian English is becoming more widely acknowledged as a vibrant and significant component of modern English.