List: ‘Japa, Agbero, Suya’, other Nigerian words added to Oxford Dictionary
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has included 20 uniquely Nigerian words and expressions in its latest update, showcasing the global influence of Nigerian culture and language.
Among the newly added entries are familiar terms such as “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” “419,” and “abi,” which reflect everyday experiences, Pidgin English, and street slang widely used in Nigeria.
Notably, some of the words, like “japa” and “jand,” function as both nouns and verbs. Pronunciation guides have also been included to help non-Nigerians articulate these words accurately.
Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant for the OED, announced the update on LinkedIn, sharing his excitement about his role in drafting the words and recording their pronunciations.
“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,” Ugwuanyi wrote.
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.”
Here are some highlights from the newly added words:
– Japa: Defined as “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries (especially in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity.”
– 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.”
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– 419: Defined as “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 full list of Nigerian words added includes:
1. 419
2. Abi
3. Adire
4. Agbero
5. Area boy
6. Cross-carpet
7. Cross-carpeting
8. Eba
9. Edo
10. Gele
11. Jand (noun, verb)
12. Janded (adjective)
13. Japa (noun, verb)
14. Kanuri
15. Kobo
16. Naija
17. Suya
18. Yahoo
19. Yahoo boy
20. Yarn dust
This addition emphasis on the growing recognition of Nigerian English on a global stage and its contribution to the richness of the English language.
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