Grumpy Ned's definitions

Amebo

A typical Nigerian expression used to describe a 'loose mouthed' person (or a gossip). It can also indicate talk or rumours involving the private lives of other people.

Amebo is derived from the gossip character played by veteran actress Mrs Ibidun Allison in the classic Nigerian soap opera, The Village Headmaster.

I don't like that Tope is such an amebo. Please avoid her.

by Grumpy Ned January 11, 2020

Non-Marlian

A person who can see through the terribleness of Naira Marley, and is not affected by his indoctrination.

I'm a non-marlian

by Grumpy Ned January 3, 2020

Chinedu

Chinedu is the perfect boyfriend. A ladies man, and probably the only guy that Amaka never disappoints. Usually sweet, sensible, smart, full of charisma, loving, teasing and naughty. He is a no-nonsense person and someone you could count on. His loyalty is never in question.

A guy that is outgoing and friendly. Everyone knows of him but he keeps very few close friends. He can be a really shy person at first, might take some time for you to get to know him, but once you become friends, you'll never regret it.

A bit annoying sometimes but in a good way. He is crazy and fun to be with. He can make you laugh all day. He seems brave, but a very sensitive guy.

Chinedu strives to do things for the better, hardly selfish, observant and family oriented. Once you find a Chinedu you'll love him always. Absolutely amazing guy.

Olanma: Why are you smiling?
Diogo: I think i may have found a Chinedu

by Grumpy Ned February 5, 2020

Monkey No Fine, But Him Mama Like Am

1. A popular Nigerian phrase (in Pidgin English) that implies that 'ugly' people cannot be loved by anybody other than their mothers, based on the belief that mothers generally love their kids regardless.

2. May have originated from the English saying, "a face only a mother could love"

Obasanjo is a typical example of monkey no fine, but him mama like am

by Grumpy Ned February 9, 2021

Have You Eaten?

This is a question typically asked by Nigerians to show care or pretend to worry about your 'stomach'. The question 'have you eaten?' is sometimes met with silence, heavy sigh, or a lie. And If the reply is 'I haven't eaten', there is a chance you will hear 'Go and cook na'.

The question could also suggest strong term of endearment.

The phrase is exactly what you get If someone likes you

It's also an annoying question we love to hear, even though we act like we don't

Three words that have lost their originally intended meaning

A serious inquiry that should not be taken seriously

Boy: Have you eaten?
Girl: Why are you asking?

Boy: I care about you.

by Grumpy Ned May 5, 2022

I Can't Kill Myself

A term Nigerians often use to justify their tiredness or hesitance to do more than they have already done. A phrase that has become a handy excuse for lazy people.

The phrase however, is the first portion of the refrain in a famous song by Timaya with the same name. The song insidiously grows on you, crawls into your ears and lays musical eggs in your brain.

Amaka: Seyi, will you attend tomorrow's meeting?
Seyi: No, i won't. I can't kill myself.

by Grumpy Ned January 4, 2020