/ˈdænfoʊ/
Definition:
DANFO is the name given to a small commercial bus, typically painted yellow with black stripes, used for public transportation in Nigeria, especially in Lagos. These buses operate on fixed routes and are known for their speed, affordability, and sometimes chaotic nature.
- Synonyms: “Molue“ (larger Lagos buses), “Korope“ (smaller commercial vans), “Trotro“ (Ghanaian commercial buses),“Buses”
- Antonyms: “Private car”, “Uber”, “BRT bus“ (modern transit buses)
Hear how native speakers pronounce DANFO in the video below.
Usage Examples:
- Informal: “Enter DANFO quick quick before Conductor shout ‘No space again!'”
- Formal: “DANFO remain Lagos’s most accessible transport option despite safety concerns.”
- Idiomatic: “If you no fit survive DANFO, you no fit survive Lagos!” (Surviving DANFO rides means you can handle Lagos)
Cultural Context:
Origin:
The word DANFO is believed to have originated from Nigerian Pidgin and possibly Yoruba influences, referring to the bus’s function as a rapid, small-scale transport system. The introduction of DANFO buses in Lagos can be traced back to the 1970s, when economic shifts led to an increase in private commercial transportation. These buses became a crucial alternative to government-regulated transportation, offering quick and flexible transit options for the city’s growing population. The rugged nature of DANFOs, coupled with their affordability, cemented their place as a dominant mode of transport in Nigeria’s urban landscape.
Regional Usage:
While DANFO is most commonly associated with Lagos, it is also used in other Nigerian cities like Ibadan, Benin City, and Port Harcourt to describe similar small commercial buses. However, in Lagos, DANFO has become an integral part of the city’s identity, often representing the fast-paced, hustling spirit of the metropolis. The term is widely recognized across Nigeria and among Nigerians in the diaspora who are familiar with Lagos’ unique transport culture.
Now it’s your turn! Use “DANFO” in a sentence and drop it in the comments. Have you ever had an interesting experience in a DANFO? Share your story!