Word for the Travel Wise (11/07/06)

Should you find yourself at dinner or having a cup of tea at a Nigerian friend’s place or someone of Nigerian descent, don’t be too surprised to hear this word shortly after stepping into the house…

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

joko – sit down

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, gabdun, jo