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30+ Common Pidgin Phrases for Your Trip to Nigeria

30+ Common Pidgin Phrases for Your Trip to Nigeria

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 PhraseMeaning
How far?How are you? or What’s up?
Reason amThink about it
I deyI’m fine/I’m good
Wetin dey sup?What’s going on? or What’s up?
AbegPlease
No wahalaNo problem, It’s okay
How far na?How are you? (informal)
Make I run amLet me do it, I’ll handle it
You too much!You’re awesome, You’re great
OyaLet’s go, Hurry up!
ChillRelax, Take it easy
Abeg no vexSorry, Please don’t be upset
E go betterThings will improve, It will get better
GingerEncourage, Motivate
BabaTerm of respect for an older man or elder
JaraExtra, Bonus
Na wah oWow, This is unbelievable, It’s crazy
Di level don changeThings have improved, Big change
Wetin be your own?What’s your business? or Why do you care?
WakaTo walk, to go somewhere
SabiTo know, To understand
You dey follow me talk?Are you talking to me?
PikinChild, Kid
Shine your eyeBe careful, Stay alert
Wetin you go chop?What do you want to eat?
Abeg, no go therePlease don’t go there
Na trueThat’s true, I agree
You dey enter my eyeYou’re looking attractive
NyashAss or Buttocks
WereySilly person, Fool
KpekusVagina
No be small thingIt’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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