Safe travels and ẹ káàbọ̀ (welcome)
Heading to Nigeria?
English is the official language of Nigeria, so you will get by. But a few words in the local language earn warm smiles and open doors. Start with the language of the region you are visiting.
Which language for where?
Nigeria is rich in languages. This is a simple guide to get you started.
Lagos and Ibadan
Yoruba. Learn Yoruba
Enugu and Onitsha
Igbo. Learn Igbo
Kano and Kaduna
Hausa. Learn Hausa
Anywhere
Pidgin is widely understood. Learn Pidgin
Words that open doors
Four easy phrases in each language. Practice them out loud before you go.
Yoruba
- Ẹ káàbọ̀ (welcome)
- Ẹ kú àárọ̀ (good morning)
- Ẹ ṣé (thank you)
- Jọ̀wọ́ (please)
Igbo
- Ndeewo (hello)
- Ụtụtụ ọma (good morning)
- Daalụ (thank you)
- Biko (please)
Hausa
- Sannu (hello)
- Ina kwana (good morning)
- Na gode (thank you)
- Don Allah (please)
Pidgin
- How far? (hello, how are you?)
- I dey fine (I am fine)
- Thank you o (thank you)
- Abeg (please)
A greeting goes a long way
A greeting in the local language is often met with a big smile and an invitation to say more. Listen to native speakers and practice with a relative or friend so the tones and sounds feel natural before you go.
A few warm courtesies
- Greet first, then ask. A greeting before a question is considered polite everywhere.
- Greet elders first and use respectful titles such as Sir, Madam, Auntie, Uncle, or Dr.
- Offer and receive things with your right hand.
- Accept hospitality graciously, and ask before taking photos of people.
- Traveling for a medical mission, conference, or research visit? Greet hosts, colleagues, and patients in their language, and use qualified interpreters for anything clinical. See Language in pharmacy practice.
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