In a landmark recognition of Nigeria's cultural and linguistic influence, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has officially welcomed a fresh batch of Nigerian and West African words into its hallowed pages.
From Naija Streets to Global Lexicon
The prestigious dictionary announced on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, that it had included 22 new expressions from the region. This move highlights how Nigerian Pidgin, Yoruba, Igbo, and other local languages are dynamically shaping the English language worldwide.
Among the most notable additions are "amala" and "nyash", two terms deeply embedded in everyday Nigerian conversation. They are joined by six other significant words: "abeg", "biko", "afrobeats", "Ghana Must Go", "mammy market", and "moi moi".
What These New Words Mean
The OED defines "nyash" as a person's buttocks, particularly a woman's. Originating from Nigerian Pidgin, this playful slang has transcended borders through Afrobeats lyrics and social media, often symbolising body positivity and humour.
"Amala" is described as a dough made from yam or unripe plantain flour, typically served with soups and stews. This staple of Yoruba cuisine is a beloved symbol of West African food culture.
The term "mammy market" refers to a market traditionally run by women, often found near military barracks, NYSC camps, and schools. These vibrant hubs are central to community life, selling everything from daily meals to household goods.
The other new entries paint a rich picture of Nigerian life:
- "Abeg" (Pidgin) and "biko" (Igbo): Both meaning "please," used to soften requests or pleas.
- "Afrobeats": The globally dominant music genre fusing African rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife.
- "Ghana Must Go": The iconic chequered plastic bags, a term born from the 1983 expulsion of Ghanaians from Nigeria.
- "Moi moi": A nutritious steamed bean pudding, a common snack and side dish.
A Nigerian Linguist Leads the Charge
This historic update was significantly driven by Dr. Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant for the OED. He drafted most of the new entries, and his voice can be heard pronouncing words like "nyash" on the dictionary's official website.
This is not the first time Nigerian English has enriched the OED. The January 2025 update included words like "japa" (to emigrate suddenly), "419" (advance-fee fraud), and "suya" (spicy grilled meat). Earlier, in January 2020, terms such as "danfo" (minibus), "okada" (motorcycle taxi), and "mama put" (roadside food vendor) were added.
Cultural Pride and Global Conversations
The inclusion of these words is more than a linguistic update; it is a validation of Nigeria's massive cultural soft power. With a vast diaspora and the global reach of Nollywood, Afrobeats, and social media, Nigerian slang has found a permanent home in international discourse.
For Nigerians at home and abroad, this recognition is a profound source of pride, affirming that their unique way of communicating matters on the world stage. While some discussions about cultural appropriation persist, many see this as a positive step towards a more inclusive and representative global English.
The OED's 2026 update firmly establishes that the vibrant flavours of West Africa have a permanent and growing place in the evolution of the English language.
