Nigeria’s vibrant youth culture continues to shape the country’s language, with fresh slang terms emerging every year from music, movies, social media, and street culture.
In 2025, several phrases have gone viral, capturing the nation’s humour, creativity, and mood.
These new expressions are more than just playful words; they are a reflection of Nigeria’s youth, showcasing their ingenuity, experiences, and social commentary.
From online trends to everyday conversations on the streets, these slangs have become an essential part of modern communication among young Nigerians.
Ganusi, a casual way of asking permission or showing interest in joining an activity. Another widely used term,
Achalugo, inspired by the hit movie Love in Every Word, refers to a beautiful and valuable woman worth investing time and money in.
Labubu has become synonymous with something trendy, quirky, or even chaotic, often used to describe viral toys or fashion trends.
Clock It: used to agree or point out something obvious.
Sope Purrr: which expresses excitement or admiration. Social commentary is also reflected in slang like
Nepo baby: referring to someone whose success is largely tied to family connections,
Lapo Baby: describing individuals from working-class or impoverished backgrounds.
Cooked: used to describe someone mentally exhausted or overwhelmed, while
Ate: is a term of praise for doing something exceptionally well.
No cap: conveys honesty or assures that there is no problem.
Kundusi: for instance, originated from MC Oluomo’s mispronunciation of “kudos”.
Chakam: emphasises taking screenshots as proof in online debates.
If e reach your turn: is a sarcastic way of telling someone to wait their turn and not interfere in others’ affairs.
Everywhere Go First Blurr: expresses disappointment or heartbreak.
Take Ham Play: highlight the importance of an issue or statement
Gadus: is used to express disbelief or absurdity.
Collectively, these phrases reflect the energy, humour, and everyday experiences of Nigerian youths.
Music and Nollywood films also play a key role in introducing and popularising new terms.
As Nigeria’s youth continue to innovate linguistically, these phrases are likely to influence not just casual conversations but also marketing, entertainment, and social media trends in the years to come.
