If you’re planning to visit Nigeria, you’re in for a fantastic time! One of the best ways to connect with the locals is through their language: Pidgin.
It’s a special language that blends English with elements from Nigerian local languages like Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa. Don’t worry—it’s easy to pick up, and once you know a few phrases, you’ll be speaking like a local in no time.
30 Common Pidgin Phrases You’ll Hear in Nigeria
| Pidgin Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| How far? | How are you? or What’s up? |
| Reason am | Think about it |
| I dey | I’m fine/I’m good |
| Wetin dey sup? | What’s going on? or What’s up? |
| Abeg | Please |
| No wahala | No problem, It’s okay |
| How far na? | How are you? (informal) |
| Make I run am | Let me do it, I’ll handle it |
| You too much! | You’re awesome, You’re great |
| Oya | Let’s go, Hurry up! |
| Chill | Relax, Take it easy |
| Abeg no vex | Sorry, Please don’t be upset |
| E go better | Things will improve, It will get better |
| Ginger | Encourage, Motivate |
| Baba | Term of respect for an older man or elder |
| Jara | Extra, Bonus |
| Na wah o | Wow, This is unbelievable, It’s crazy |
| Di level don change | Things have improved, Big change |
| Wetin be your own? | What’s your business? or Why do you care? |
| Waka | To walk, to go somewhere |
| Sabi | To know, To understand |
| You dey follow me talk? | Are you talking to me? |
| Pikin | Child, Kid |
| Shine your eye | Be careful, Stay alert |
| Wetin you go chop? | What do you want to eat? |
| Abeg, no go there | Please don’t go there |
| Na true | That’s true, I agree |
| You dey enter my eye | You’re looking attractive |
| Nyash | Ass or Buttocks |
| Werey | Silly person, Fool |
| Kpekus | Vagina |
| No be small thing | It’s a big deal, It’s serious |
Now that you’ve got these 30+ pidgin phrases under your belt, you’re ready to dive into the world of Nigerian Pidgin! Whether you’re chatting with locals, negotiating in a market, or simply making new friends, using Pidgin will make your experience much richer and more fun.
So next time someone asks, “How far?” you’ll be able to reply with “I dey!” and continue the conversation like a true local. Have a great trip to Nigeria, and don’t forget to practice these phrases—they’ll definitely help you feel at home!
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