Oxford Dictionary adds Japa, Agbero, Eba, Abi, 419, and other Nigerian words

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has added 20 Nigerian words and expressions to its latest update, showcasing the growing global influence of Nigerian culture and language

New entries include popular terms such as japa, agbero, eba, 419, and abi, among others. These words reflect the impact of Pidgin English, street slang, and cultural expressions deeply rooted in the daily lives of Nigerians.

Interestingly, some words, like japa and jand, are listed as both nouns and verbs. To aid non-Nigerians in pronunciation, the dictionary provides detailed guides.

Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant for the OED, announced the update on LinkedIn, expressing his excitement about contributing to the selection and pronunciation of the words. He remarked, “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.”

Among the new entries:

Japa refers to “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries, especially in search of education, employment, or economic opportunities.”

Agbero describes “a person (usually a young man) working as a tout at car parks and bus stops, assisting passengers and collecting money from drivers.”

419 is defined as “fraud, often internet-based, involving requests for advance payment in return for a share of a large sum that is never delivered.”

Other additions include abi, adire, area boy, cross-carpet, cross-carpeting, Edo, gele, janded, Kanuri, kobo, Naija, suya, Yahoo, Yahoo boy, and yarn dust.

These inclusions further highlight Nigeria’s linguistic diversity and its growing global cultural footprint.

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