Word for the Travel Wise (07/18/06)

Every time a friend of mine goes back home to Africa or the U.K., he usually brings back this delicious treat made from flour called chin-chin. At first glance the desert type snack looks more like kibbles n’ bits than something I’d be willing to toss back in the ole’ trap to munch on, but it’s truly mouth-watering once you get a taste. I’m hoping he’ll bring a little something back from his next trip or perhaps it’s time I made it a very good excuse to travel on over to Nigeria.

Today’s word is a Yoruba word used in Nigeria:

gabdun – enjoy

English is the official language of Nigeria, which means any traveler should be able to converse and navigate their way from Lagos to Jigawa with ease. (Unless you don’t speak English.) The country’s three main languages include: Yoruba, Ibo (Igbo), and Hausa. Each of the three main languages are named after the people they belong to and carry several dialects within themselves. Motherland Nigeria has an incredible intro to the three languages, Nigerian slang and even a few examples of common Pidgin English spoken. Some audio samples are available as well.

Past Nigerian / Yoruba / Igbo words: ikun, feran, kedu, odabo