Communication Habits of Nigerian Women: Understanding Their Style and Common Phrases

Introduction: Communication Style of Nigerian Women

Nigerian women are known for their warm and expressive communication style. They place a strong emphasis on respect, especially towards elders, while incorporating modern and sometimes playful language influenced by Nigeria’s diverse cultures and languages. Conversations often blend English with local languages or Pidgin, depending on the setting. Nigerian women use a combination of verbal and non-verbal cues, such as smiling or gesturing, to enhance communication. Respect is central to their interactions, but there is also room for humor and camaraderie, especially among peers.

Communication Habits by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

Teenage Nigerian girls often communicate informally, especially with friends, using a mix of Pidgin English and local slang. Popular phrases like "How you dey?" (How are you?) or "Abeg" (Please) are common. This age group tends to be influenced by social media and pop culture, with conversations revolving around school, fashion, and friends. However, respect for elders is still emphasized, with phrases like "Yes, ma" or "Thank you, ma" used when speaking to adults.

19-29 Years Old

Young adult women in Nigeria combine a more mature, respectful tone with the casualness of Pidgin English in social settings. Phrases like "I dey o" (I’m fine) or "Wetin dey happen?" (What’s going on?) are common in everyday conversation. In professional or formal environments, they adopt a more polished, respectful tone, using phrases such as "I appreciate your time" or "Thank you for your consideration." Communication at this stage often balances formality with a personable touch, especially in professional settings.

30-39 Years Old

Nigerian women in their thirties are more deliberate in their communication, especially in professional settings. Phrases such as "I value your input" or "Let’s align on this" are common in work discussions. Socially, expressions like "E go better" (It will get better) and "No wahala" (No problem) are frequently used, reflecting optimism and resilience. Communication in this age group also emphasizes family, career, and social responsibilities, with a mix of humor and wisdom.

40 Years Old and Above

Older Nigerian women tend to speak with a tone of authority and respect. Phrases such as "What is your view on this?" or "Thank you for your wisdom" are used in formal settings, while informal settings may see phrases like "God bless you" or "It is well," showing a deep connection to cultural and religious values. Humor is still appreciated, but conversations tend to be more measured and focus on family, life experiences, and offering advice.

Common Phrases and Slang by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

• "How you dey?" – How are you?
• "Abeg" – Please.
• "Wetin dey happen?" – What’s going on?
• "No vex" – Don’t be upset.
• "Omo" – Used to refer to a friend, like "girl" or "child."

19-29 Years Old

• "I dey o" – I’m fine.
• "No wahala" – No problem.
• "God don bless me" – God has blessed me, often used when sharing good news.
• "Biko" – Please (used in Igbo).
• "You try well well" – You did well.

30-39 Years Old

• "E go better" – It will get better, often used to comfort someone.
• "Make we reason am" – Let’s think about it.
• "God go bless you" – May God bless you, a common expression of gratitude.
• "I appreciate your time" – Used in professional settings to show respect.
• "Na so e be" – That’s how it is.

40 Years Old and Above

• "What is your view on this?" – Asking for an opinion, commonly used in formal settings.
• "Thank you for your wisdom" – Used to show respect for someone’s advice.
• "God bless you" – A frequent expression of goodwill.
• "It is well" – A comforting phrase used to reassure someone.
• "Let us seek advice" – Suggesting consultation or seeking wisdom from elders.

Conclusion

Nigerian women’s communication habits reflect a strong blend of tradition, respect, and modernity. Across all age groups, the importance of politeness, humor, and verbal respect is evident. While younger women are more casual and playful in their conversations, older women focus on wisdom and authority. Whether in social or professional settings, understanding these communication styles, along with the use of common expressions, will help in navigating conversations with Nigerian women effectively.