/já-pá/ Definition: JAPA is a Nigerian Pidgin word that means to escape, flee, or run away, particularly from a difficult, dangerous, or undesirable situation. In recent times, however, the term has evolved significantly in usage and context. Today, “JAPA” is commonly used to describe the act of leaving Nigeria, often permanently, to seek better opportunities...Read More

/ˈdʒɑː.rə/ Definition: JARA is a commonly used word in Nigerian Pidgin English that means “to add a little extra”—often at no additional cost. It is typically used in informal settings, especially in market transactions or during any form of trade involving measuring, counting, or packaging items. When a buyer requests “JARA,” they are asking the...Read More

Pronunciation: (Jo-Go-Do) Meaning: To be drunk, high or intoxicated Origin: This word originates from the streets of Lagos, Nigeria and is popularly used in Nigeria. Sentence: Kevin took a lot of alcohol, now he is JogodoRead More

Pronunciation: (Ju-D) Meaning: A foolish man who spends money carelessly Origin: This a new word used on the streets of Nigeria. It is a shortened word from Juuman. Sentence: The Jude spent the whole night at the night club with the girls. Similar word(s) – Mumu , Maga , OdeRead More

Pronunciation: (Ju-Ju) Meaning: Witchcraft or voodoo Origin: This word has been in existence for a very long time and is widely used across West Africa where it originated from, as well as the world at large. Sentence: The native doctor made a Juju for him to take to work.Read More

Pronunciation: (Kalo-Kalo) Meaning: A form of street gamble Origin: This word originated from the streets of Lagos, Nigeria and is a very popular word used with the country. Sentence: Joe lost all his money at the Kalokalo game.Read More

Pronunciation: (Ka-M-Kpe) Meaning: To be strong, confident or to be correct Origin: This word originated from the streets of Nigeria and has become a common means of expression in Nigeria. Sentence: I’m Kamkpe! and ready to begin.Read More

Pronunciation: ( Kay-Way) Meaning: How is it going? Origin: This word originated from the Igbo language in the southeastern part of Nigeria. It is a combination of two words, one of Igbo, “Ke” meaning “what?” And the other, an English word “way” meaning “direction”. This word is predominantly used in the streets of Igbo speaking...Read More

Pronunciation: (Ken-Kay) Meaning: A popular dish in some parts of West Africa made from maize and eaten with a sauce and fried or roasted fish Origin: This word originated from the traditional dish of the Togolese people which has spread across western African countries. Sentence: Are eating your Kenke now or later?Read More

Pronunciation: (Kpa-Fu-Ka) Meaning: To destroy, scatter, disarrange or collapse Origin: This word has its roots from the streets of Lagos, Nigeria and is popular particularly in the southeastern regions of the country. Sentence: Everything he was scheming Kpafuka!Read More