By Abidemi Adebamiwa
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) recently introduced several Nigerian terms, igniting discussions about cultural identity and representation. Words like “419” and “Yahoo” showcase Nigeria’s linguistic creativity but also carry the risk of reinforcing negative stereotypes. For instance, “419,” which refers to a section of Nigeria’s Criminal Code on fraud, is often reduced to slang, overshadowing its legal and cultural significance. Similarly, terms like “Area Boy” and “Agbero,” which describe street hustlers, oversimplify complex realities, framing individuals in ways that diminish their humanity. These labels risk distorting perceptions of urban Nigerian life, both at home and abroad, by reducing nuanced social dynamics to stereotypes.
This issue becomes even more glaring when compared to how potentially offensive terms are handled in other contexts. Dictionaries like Merriam-Webster label words such as “nigger” with explicit warnings and historical context to highlight their offensive nature. Such careful framing fosters understanding and addresses sensitivities. Nigerian terms, however, often lack this level of nuance, leaving them open to misinterpretation and perpetuating harmful narratives. For instance, “419” is frequently presented as a simple synonym for fraud without acknowledging its origin in Nigeria’s Criminal Code. This approach reinforces stereotypes while ignoring the broader social and legal frameworks from which such terms emerge.
On a more positive note, the inclusion of terms like “Adire” and “Suya” celebrates Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. These entries spotlight traditional fabric dyeing techniques and iconic street foods, reflecting Nigeria’s creative contributions to global culture. Nigerian scholar Kingsley Ugwuanyi, who contributed to these OED entries, emphasizes the importance of indigenous languages in enriching Nigerian English. While these additions are a step in the right direction, many argue for a more balanced representation to ensure Nigeria’s broader cultural contributions—beyond resilience and innovation—are equally highlighted.
Take “Japa,” for example, defined by the OED as “the emigration of Nigerians to other countries in search of education, employment, or economic opportunity.” While accurate on the surface, this definition misses the deeper, often critical undertones of the term. Historically, “Japa” has carried implications of unpatriotism or abandoning one’s homeland, making it more than just a neutral descriptor of migration. Framing it solely as a socio-economic phenomenon overlooks its cultural and emotional layers, which are essential to understanding its full significance.
Terms like “Agbero,” linked to Nigeria’s bustling cities, embody the energy and challenges of urban life. However, without proper context, they risk reinforcing narratives of poverty and crime, overshadowing the resilience of these communities. Critics urge dictionaries to present entries that honor Nigerian English’s cultural and historical richness rather than focusing narrowly on socio-economic struggles. A more balanced portrayal would celebrate the ingenuity and vitality of Nigerian cities while acknowledging their challenges.
The impact of these dictionary entries extends far beyond the page, shaping global perceptions of Nigeria. Misrepresentations can entrench harmful stereotypes, affecting everything from cultural diplomacy to economic partnerships. Nigerian cultural groups and initiatives, including campaigns celebrating Nollywood and the country’s unique cuisine, are working to reshape these narratives. These efforts highlight Nigeria’s creative achievements, offering stories that go beyond stereotypes to reflect the nation’s dynamic identity.
For example, Nollywood’s global popularity and the rising recognition of Nigerian cuisine are changing how the world views the country. These cultural exports illustrate Nigeria’s vibrancy and innovation, challenging reductive portrayals. By celebrating such achievements, these campaigns show how narratives can shift to emphasize Nigeria’s positive contributions to global culture. This broader perspective underscores the need for inclusive representation that reflects the depth and diversity of Nigerian life.
Linguists like Guillaume Thierry and Stanford scholars Eleanor Chestnut and Ellen Markman emphasize the power of language in shaping perceptions and fostering understanding. They argue that fair representation of languages in dictionaries can bridge cultural divides and combat biases effectively. When dictionaries fail to fully capture the nuances of a language, they risk perpetuating incomplete or distorted views. Collaborative efforts with cultural advocates and linguists are essential to ensure fairness and inclusivity in documenting languages globally.
Movements in cities like Nairobi and Accra echo this call for equitable linguistic representation. Scholars and advocates in these regions are pushing for dictionaries to reflect their unique identities accurately, celebrating cultural contributions while challenging stereotypes. These initiatives highlight the importance of inclusive documentation as a pathway to understanding global diversity. By valuing diverse languages and cultures, we can foster richer exchanges and build a more compassionate world.
For Nigeria, accurate representation in global dictionaries is not just about words—it’s about preserving cultural identity and fostering respect on the world stage. Joint efforts with more and diverse Nigerian linguists and historians could lead to entries that are both fair and comprehensive. By celebrating the richness of Nigerian English while addressing its challenges, dictionaries can reshape perceptions and deepen global understanding. This approach not only promotes equity but also enriches the global lexicon, paving the way for greater appreciation of Nigeria’s vibrant linguistic heritage
Abidemi Adebamiwa, a geopolitical analyst and PhD student with expertise in finance, policy, and African development, is also a former Global Peace Index Ambassador
