Definition of FOLLOW COME
Phonetic Transcription: /fŏl-lō kŭm/
FOLLOW COME is a Nigerian term used to describe something original, genuine, or factory-installed. It means the item came with its original components or features from the manufacturer, not modified or replaced. The phrase is commonly used when referring to electronics, vehicles, or gadgets, but it also applies in casual speech to describe natural or inborn qualities in a person.
In its literal sense, “FOLLOW COME” means “came with” or “came together with.” For example, when someone says, “Dis charger na FOLLOW COME,” it means the charger originally came with the phone, not bought separately. It assures others that the product is authentic and unaltered.
Over time, the phrase expanded beyond its literal meaning. In everyday Nigerian conversations, people use “FOLLOW COME” metaphorically. It now describes traits, qualities, or features that are natural rather than acquired. For instance, if someone says, “Her beauty na FOLLOW COME,” it means her beauty is natural, not from makeup or surgery.
The term also carries a tone of pride or assurance. It distinguishes what is real from what is fake and what is factory-made from what is customized. In a country where counterfeits and secondhand goods are common, “FOLLOW COME” helps establish credibility and value.
In social discussions, “FOLLOW COME” has become part of Nigerian street and pop culture. Musicians, comedians, and influencers use it in jokes, songs, and captions to describe anything authentic, original, or natural. It reflects Nigeria’s rich linguistic creativity, where English words are localized into vivid, expressive street phrases.
The phrase also plays into the Nigerian sense of humor and wordplay. It’s used to tease or compliment people depending on the context. Saying “Your sense of style na FOLLOW COME” can be both a compliment and a playful remark. The meaning depends on tone and situation.
In short, “FOLLOW COME” has grown from a simple phrase about product authenticity into a versatile expression used to affirm originality and truth in both objects and people.
- Synonyms: “Original,” “Factory-installed,” “Authentic.”
- Antonyms: “Fake,” “Replacement,” “Counterfeit.“
Usage Examples
- Informal: “Dis battery na FOLLOW COME, e no be China one.”
- Formal: “In Nigerian English, ‘FOLLOW COME’ denotes something that retains its original form.”
- Idiomatic: “Your confidence na FOLLOW COME,” meaning the person has natural confidence.
Cultural Context
Origin
The phrase “FOLLOW COME” originated from Nigerian Pidgin English, a creole language that blends English with local African languages. Pidgin developed as a means of communication between people of different ethnic backgrounds across Nigeria and West Africa. Over time, it became a common language used in trade, entertainment, and daily conversation.
The expression itself combines two English words, “follow” and “come,” arranged in a way that reflects Pidgin structure rather than standard English grammar. In literal translation, it means “came with” or “came alongside.” For example, if a phone “FOLLOW COME” with a charger, it means the charger came from the manufacturer, not added later.
The earliest usage of “FOLLOW COME” appeared in markets and electronics shops in Nigeria during the late 20th century. Traders used it to convince customers that their goods were authentic. With the rise of imported products, especially electronics and car parts, counterfeit items became common. To reassure buyers, sellers would say things like, “Dis one na FOLLOW COME,” meaning it’s not a replacement or fake part.
As time passed, “FOLLOW COME” entered everyday speech beyond the marketplace. It began to describe not only objects but also personal traits and qualities. When someone said, “Her beauty na FOLLOW COME,” it was a way of saying the person’s beauty was natural. This shift from material authenticity to personal authenticity shows how Nigerians use language creatively to express cultural values.
The term also reflects Nigeria’s experience with globalization. As imported goods flooded local markets, distinguishing originals from fakes became a daily concern. “FOLLOW COME” served as a linguistic tool to mark the difference between what was genuine and what was not. It became a phrase of trust and assurance.
In modern culture, “FOLLOW COME” appears in music, comedy, and online slang. Nigerian artists use it to describe originality in lyrics or talent. For example, a musician might say, “My voice na FOLLOW COME,” meaning his vocal skill is natural. The phrase carries both pride and humor, typical of Nigerian expression.
Although rooted in Pidgin, “FOLLOW COME” has become part of Nigerian English. It appears in conversations among educated speakers and in media discussions. Its meaning remains clear across social classes and regions, showing how deeply it has entered everyday language.
The evolution of “FOLLOW COME” captures the Nigerian approach to language—flexible, creative, and deeply connected to lived experience.
Regional Usage
“FOLLOW COME” is widely used across Nigeria, cutting across ethnic, social, and regional lines. From Lagos to Port Harcourt, Abuja to Kano, the phrase holds the same meaning—authentic, original, or genuine. It is one of those Pidgin expressions that unite Nigerians regardless of background.
In southern Nigeria, especially in Lagos and the Niger Delta, “FOLLOW COME” is common in markets and among traders. Electronics sellers, car dealers, and phone technicians often use the term when convincing customers about the originality of their goods. For example, a trader might say, “Dis phone FOLLOW COME charger and earpiece, no be fake one.”
In the eastern part of Nigeria, particularly among the Igbo, the term is also common in business environments. Igbo traders, known for their entrepreneurship, use “FOLLOW COME” to assure buyers of product quality. It has become a trusted term in informal trade communication.
In northern Nigeria, where Hausa-English mixtures dominate local speech, the phrase is also understood. It is used in markets and among youths in urban centers. While the accent may differ, the meaning remains the same—something authentic and unaltered.
Beyond products, Nigerians everywhere use “FOLLOW COME” to describe personal qualities. It is common to hear people say, “Your own fine na FOLLOW COME” or “Your sense of humor follow come.” It shows appreciation for natural gifts rather than artificial effort.
The phrase has also traveled beyond Nigeria. In Ghana and Cameroon, where Pidgin English is spoken, “FOLLOW COME” is understood in similar ways. It has become part of West African street vocabulary.
Social media has expanded its reach even further. Nigerian influencers, comedians, and musicians often use “FOLLOW COME” in their captions or skits. The phrase now appears in memes, song lyrics, and short videos across TikTok and Instagram. It remains relatable because it expresses authenticity—something people everywhere value.
Whether in the marketplace, the office, or online spaces, “FOLLOW COME” continues to serve as a stamp of originality. Its regional spread shows how Nigerian expressions adapt and thrive across borders.
Use the word “FOLLOW COME” to make your own sentences in the comments. Try both English and Pidgin. Let’s see how you would use it in conversation.