Every year, slang from music, films, social media and street culture emerges and finds its way into the everyday lives of Nigerians.
The year 2025 has been no different—proving that words are more than mere tools of communication, they are cultural statements.
In this article, PREMIUM TIMES highlights some of the Nigerian catchphrases that went viral in 2025.
Ganusi
Popularised by Fuji music icon Wasiu “Kwam 1” Ayinde, “Ganusi” humorously refers to someone who inserts themselves into situations where they were neither invited nor entitled to benefits.
This could involve food, clothes, money, or other freebies. In essence, it describes gatecrashing, freeloading, or meddling. The term gained traction after Kwam 1 allegedly used it to describe some Islamic clerics during the Fidau prayer for his late mother, Alimotu Anifowoshe, in January.
Example: Olu Ajayi Ganusi at his neighbour’s house opening.
Achalugo
“Achalugo” originated from Omoni Oboli’s film “Love in Every Word.” The Igbo name is a term of endearment describing a woman of beauty, prestige, and strength. It translates to “the pride of the eagle” or “the beauty of the eagle,” derived from Achala (elephant grass) and Ugo (eagle).
The slang has since been widely adopted, especially by men referring affectionately to their partners.
Example: Check out Abisola, my Achalugo.
Nepo Baby
A “nepo baby” refers to someone born into privilege who attains success mainly due to family connections. Their parents are often politicians, wealthy businesspeople, or celebrities, affording them access to opportunities that are unavailable to others.
Example: Many critics argue that Femi’s rapid rise in the industry is due to him being a “nepo baby.”
Lapo Baby
The opposite of a nepo baby, a “Lapo baby” describes individuals who grow up without privilege or influential connections. The term is often used by individuals hustling to succeed independently, without the benefit of parental wealth or support.
Example: I’m a full-blooded Lapo baby.
If e reach your turn
A Pidgin English phrase meaning “when it is your turn.” It is often used sarcastically to comment on how people behave once they finally get an opportunity or a position of power.
Example: If e reach your turn, don’t spend the money.
Everywhere Go First Blurr
This slang is used humorously to express confusion, shock, disappointment, or emotional overwhelm. It suggests a moment where everything suddenly feels unclear or chaotic.
Example: After seeing my bank balance, everywhere just go first blurr.
Sope Purrr
A playful expression combining “Sope” and “Purrr” to convey excitement, satisfaction, or encouragement. It is often used to hype someone or affirm confidence.
Example: You nailed that presentation — Sope purrr!
Labubu
Labubu originates from a character in “The Monsters” toy series created by Hong Kong–born artist Kasing Lung.
Although it has no literal meaning, the slang is now used to describe oversized or free-flowing outfits, as well as a cute but eerie aesthetic that reflects playful chaos.
Example: Her outfit was giving Labubu vibes.
Clock It
Popular on TikTok, clock it means to notice, expose, or call out something that is either hidden or blatantly obvious. It is also used to show agreement.
Example: You noticed the shade too? Clock it.
Cooked
This term describes someone who is mentally or physically exhausted, disoriented, or completely worn out — often after a long day. Office workers and students commonly use it.
Example: After back-to-back meetings, I was completely cooked.
Ate
Ate is used as praise for someone who performs exceptionally well or excels at a task. Its modern slang usage originated in African American and LGBTQ+ communities in the early 2000s.
Example: She ate that performance, no crumbs left.
Chakam
Popular on social media, “Chakam” means to keep a record, typically by taking a screenshot as proof. The word mimics the sound of a camera shutter and implies “we’ve caught you.”
Example:
Dayo: I only like serious, prayerful people.
Segun: Chakam.
Take Ham Play
This slang is used to stress the seriousness or importance of an issue, often as a warning not to take matters lightly.
Example: This exam no be joke— take ham play.
Gadus
Gadus is used to express disbelief or to dismiss something as ridiculous, often in a joking manner. The slang originates from the nickname of a young Nigerian, Abdulgafar Saad, whom his friends used to tease.
Example: You want to quit your job without a plan? Gadus!
Atasa/Ataasa
This slang, popularised through skits and viral sounds, means wonderful, impressive, or magnificent. It is often used enthusiastically.
Example: She said my outfit is Atasa.
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Involve Me
A straightforward phrase meaning to include someone in a lucrative deal or opportunity.
Example: If there’s money involved, abeg involve me.
Kundusi
Kundusi emerged after MC Oluomo, President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), famously mispronounced “kudos.” The slang is now used humorously to express appreciation or commend someone.
Example: Kundusi to you for the assignment.
