With over 50 million social media users, Nigerians are among the most active group on social media platforms globally.Over the course of this year, several trends have dominated Nigeria’s social media space.

From Twitter to Facebook and Instagram, unified campaigns have been organized, controversial topics debated and fun challenges have been initiated, many of them leading to “drags” and banters.

In this article, we take you through the top 1 social media trends of 2021 in Nigeria from January to December.


January (Charlie Charlie and Silhouette challenge)

The Charlie Charlie challenge was the first trend to hit social media in 2021. Participants in the trend will need two pencils set opposite each other, as well as a piece of paper with Yes and No inscribed on the four ends. They are to summon a spiritual being named Charlie by saying, “Charlie Charlie, are you there?”

If the pencil at the top goes to yes, the personality is present; if it does not move, the personality is not present. There are several anecdotes and rumors around the Charlie Charlie fad, such as people witnessing paranormal activity after taking the challenge.


Silhouette challenge trended within and outside Nigeria. Participants in the challenge must require a red light and be ready to dance softly to the silhouette music.

February (Lori Lo)

A 72-year-old and social media sensation, Evangelist Ismail Badmus, inspired the “Lori Iro” fame slang that gained a hashtag and trended in February.


Mr Badmus garnered critical acclaim when, on one of his evangelical ventures, the “Lori Iro” video was shot without his knowledge.

‘Lori Iro’ is a Yoruba word that means ‘lies’, the slang went viral around Valentine season.


March ( Who dey breeet, E Choke)

Popular Nigerian musician, Davido, influenced the words. While they could mean different things, “e choke” could be used when something turns out amazingly well. 

E Choke some time could means passing through a tough time as this slang doesn’t have one meaning but depends on how you use it. E Choke can also mean not having the ability to do something, or not be able to answer a question throw at you.

Who dey Breeett? is another Davido invented slang that simply means “who is breathing?” in Pidgin English.As simple as that sounds, it is actually questioning why anyone would be taking in the air freely after seeing what has been shown to them. Davido first used this slang on Twitter after Burna Boy won the Grammys award

May/ June (Sapa, and UAR )

Sapa, a slang word that has been reigning in Nigeria to describe a state of brokenness and extreme poverty, especially after extravagant spending. We can say Sapa is a mild way of saying a person is suffering or lack money; we can also call it a Spirit of poverty that targets you all the time.

UAR or United African Republic” or ‘United Alkebulan Republic’ [UAR] was the name a politician suggested to replace Nigeria’s current name. His suggestion went viral as so many and even celebrities made jokes with it.


July (Obi Cubana’s Mother Burial)

July 2021 is a month that....... [READ FULL STORY VIA LINK BELOW]

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