The Nigerian Slangs That Took Over in 2025

Nigerian youth culture has always been fast, colourful, and creative and in 2025, it became even louder. Music stars, TikTok creators, Nollywood, and everyday street conversations introduced new phrases that quickly spread across the country. 

These slangs didn’t just trend, they shaped how people joked, expressed feelings, and reacted to daily situations.

From playful compliments to sarcastic warnings, 2025 was a year packed with unforgettable expressions. Here’s a look at some slangs that completely took over the streets and social media.

Ganusi
This became one of the most popular slangs of the year. People used it casually waiting expectantly (for food/favors)” or “mouth agape/ajar,” often with a derogatory or impatient connotation of entitlement,

Achalugo
Thanks to the hit movie Love in Every Word, this word became a romantic compliment. It described a beautiful woman who is worth giving attention, time, and even money. For weeks, social media was filled with memes and videos about “finding your Achalugo.”

Labubu
This word exploded because of its mix of cuteness and chaos. Whether it referred to a trendy toy, a quirky outfit, or a funny moment, Nigerians used “Labubu” to describe anything adorable, odd, or unexpectedly viral.

Clock It
This slang was used to show agreement. If someone dropped a fact or made a sharp point, the reply was simply: “Clock it.”

Sope Purrr
A hype phrase that expressed admiration or excitement. It was common under music videos, fashion reels, and birthday posts.

Nepo Baby
Borrowed from global pop culture but fully embraced in Nigeria. It referred to someone who succeeded mainly because of family connections or influential parents.

Lapo Baby
A direct opposite of “Nepo Baby.” It described someone who grew up in a humble or financially challenging background.

Shayla
A sweet and affectionate term for a lady. It became common in TikTok skits and love-themed posts.

Cooked
Used when someone was mentally drained or badly overwhelmed by events. Students used it during exam season, and workers used it during stressful days.

Ate
A modern way of saying someone performed extremely well. If you delivered a great look or nailed a performance, people simply said: “You ate.”

No Cap
Although not new globally, Nigerians gave it fresh meaning in 2025. Locally, it often meant “no problem” or “truth.”

Kundusi
This funny slang came from MC Oluomo’s viral mispronunciation of “kudos.” It became a humorous way to show appreciation.

Chakam
A reminder to take screenshots as evidence especially in gossip chats or suspicious situations.

If e reach your turn
A sarcastic phrase telling someone to mind their business or wait until a situation affects them before talking too much.

Everywhere Go First Blurr
Used when someone felt sad, shocked, or heartbroken. It described that moment when everything seems confusing or painful.

Take Ham Play
This emphasised seriousness. When someone said, “No take ham play,” they meant the matter shouldn’t be joked about.

Gadus
A dramatic way to express disbelief or confusion. It often appeared in funny videos or surprising stories.