Japa, Eba, Agbero make list as Oxford English Dictionary add 20 Nigerian words

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has expanded its collection with 20 new Nigerian words and expressions in its latest update.

Among the newly added terms are “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” “419,” and “abi,” which reflect the vibrant linguistic and cultural heritage of Nigeria. These entries, rooted in Pidgin English, street slang, and local cultural expressions, signify the growing global recognition of Nigerian English.

Interestingly, some terms, including “japa” and “jand,” are listed as both nouns and verbs, demonstrating their versatile usage in everyday conversations. Pronunciation guides have also been included to help non-Nigerians accurately pronounce the words.

Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant to the OED, announced the update on LinkedIn, expressing his excitement about contributing to this milestone.

“I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) Oxford Languages | OUP 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.

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He further revealed his role in drafting the words and recording their pronunciations: “This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also had the incredible opportunity to provide their hashtag#pronunciations! So, when you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my hashtag#voice bringing these words to life.”

The term “japa” is defined as “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries (esp. those in Europe or North America) in search of further education, employment, or economic opportunity.”

“Agbero” refers to “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.”

The well-known term “419” is described 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. Frequently as a modifier, as in 419 email, 419 scam, etc. Cf. yahoo n.2.”

Below is the full list of Nigerian words now officially part of the OED: