Jonathan in Fall River, Wisconsin, says when he worked in Zambia he met many people named Bornface, supposedly because they were born face-up. In The African Book of Names, Ashkari Johnson Hodari explains that it’s common throughout sub-Saharan...
pen-robbery n.— «While people in public offices engage in “pen-robbery,” (another name for embezzlement), the artisans, especially the auto-mechanic unleash tears, sorrows and blood on the ill-fated customers who patronize them.» —“Nigeria: Not for...
cult n.— «The gang is one of several heavily armed, violent groups, known in Nigeria as cults, that have played havoc on the streets of Port Harcourt, the capital of Nigeria’s oil industry, in recent years.» —“Gang Blamed as 10 Are Killed in...
settle v.— «Adewale Ayuba is a popular fuji musician in Nigeria. He was shot in the leg on 8 April, 2001 while returning to his house after a performance. Four men of the dreaded mobile police jumped on him and demanded to be “settled” (the...
wonder bank n.—Gloss: an organization in Nigeria that falsely promises high returns on low investments, a trick similar to a pyramid scheme. «While not saying the wonder banks were out to dupe the people, the banker said what they promised was just...
ITK n.— «You were on point with your description Nick nevermind people we call ITK’s (I too know) in Nigeria which is pretty much a slang for a nerd—u can add that to your collection of Naijavocabs!!» —“Ile-Ife. A student town.” by Nicholas...