Dey for who dey for you: 20 Nigerian Slangs you should know in 2025

Nigerian slang is constantly evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest lingo can be a challenge. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are 20 essential Nigerian slangs to know in 2025:

1. Dey for who dey for you
   Meaning: Who is looking out for you?
2. Chop life
   Meaning: Enjoy life, live in the moment.
3. Sapa
   Meaning: Someone struggling financially.
4. Japa
   Meaning: To leave or run away from a situation.
5. Gbas gbos
   Meaning: A loud and intense argument or fight.
6. Mumu
   Meaning: Foolish or gullible.
7. Omo
   Meaning: Friend or younger person.
8. Wetin dey happen
   Meaning: What’s going on or what’s happening.
9. No vex
   Meaning: Don’t be angry or annoyed.
10. Dey play
    Meaning: Being playful or joking around.
11. Kolo
    Meaning: Nothing or none.
12. Sha
    Meaning: Okay or agreed.
13. Ogbeni
    Meaning: Friend or buddy.
14. Akara
    Meaning: Bean cake or a person who is stingy.
15. Turn up
    Meaning: To attend a party or social event.
16. Lowkey
    Meaning: Secretly or quietly.
17. Highkey
    Meaning: Openly or obviously.
18. Ginger
    Meaning: To motivate or inspire someone.
19. Yawa
    Meaning: Trouble or problem.
20. Las las
    Meaning: Finally or at last.

Now that you’re familiar with these Nigerian slangs, go ahead and impress your friends with your new lingo skills!