6 slangs Nigerians are using to “hold body” now

Nigerians are natural hustlers, always finding a way to laugh through life’s toughest moments. Right now, with prices dancing zanku and the economy dealing us breakfast, new slangs have come to the rescue.

From “hold body” to “no condition is permanent”, these phrases aren’t just words—they’re survival tactics. See slangs on the street of survival here:

No condition is permanent

You’ll hear this one anytime the cost of jollof rice or even a basic loaf of bread starts looking like it needs a financing plan. “No condition is permanent” has become a go-to phrase whenever the struggle feels too real.

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When the reality of the economy hits, we console each other with this powerful reminder: tough times don’t last, and “e go soon pass.” This is how we pat each other’s backs and stay hopeful, as if the price of rice will magically drop tomorrow. Keep the faith, because no condition is permanent… we hope!

Cut your coat according to your pocket.

Forget about “according to your size”—these days, it’s all about “according to your pocket!” Gone are the times when shawarma and cocktails were Friday night must-haves. Nigerians now practice selective enjoyment: Gala and soft drinks for the win! This phrase is our reminder to stay realistic, to keep things humble. If efo riro is now out of the budget, we just move to Okra soup, because na condition make crayfish bend!

We move!

This one is pure Nigerian resilience in two words. No fuel? We move! Account balance looking like a phone number? We move! Nigerians have decided that no matter what, they’ll keep it moving. “We move” is both a statement of survival and a sense of humor.

Friends now gather for “home cinema” with rechargeable lamps instead of splurging at fancy spots. The economy can shake us, but we move because we won’t be held back by anybody’s “no fuel” wahala.

Las las, we go dey alright

This is the ultimate optimistic anthem. “Las las, we go dey alright” is a reminder that no matter how tough things are, Nigerians will still rise. It’s a way of keeping hope alive even when Garri becomes a luxury item.

We tell ourselves this while standing in line at the filling station or watching Ogbono prices spike—because las las, things must fall in place. If we’re eating biscuit bone today, we go dey alright tomorrow. After all, T- Pain means temporary pain!

Shine your eye

In this economy, “shine your eye” isn’t just advice; it’s a command. It’s about knowing when and where to buy, spotting the best bargains, and understanding when to “hold body” and spend cautiously.

You’ll hear it from friends and even market vendors, who will tell you to “shine your eye” if you don’t want to go broke before month’s end. Staying sharp and making smart moves is the new chop life. You’re not only surviving—you’re shining your eye and thriving!

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We no go carry last

And finally, the battle cry of every Nigerian, “we no go carry last!” This phrase reminds us that, despite any economic rollercoaster, we’ll come out on top. Nigerians may be cutting back, switching to sachet water, and embracing all things budget-friendly, but one thing’s for sure: we won’t be the ones to “carry last.” We’ll keep surviving, hustling, and chopping life—small-small if we must, but we no go carry last for anybody!

This economy might be a daily struggle, but with these slangs and an unbeatable spirit, Nigerians are proving, once again, that las las, we go dey alright!