There are three notable tribes in Nigeria. They are; Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo tribes. The Yoruba tribe just like many tribes, is very distinct and interesting in everything they represent. Food, language, music, and even their way of greeting. I am a Yoruba boy too. Yes, and it is sweet to be one. Even more interesting to know different ways Yorubas greet.
Let’s talk about the special and interesting greeting styles of the Yoruba people. Read also – 13 Different Types Of News And Their Hilarious Yoruba Meanings.
The Yoruba people have very fascinating way of greeting that you just will not see anywhere else. You may find yourself in situations where you have to greet a Yoruba person in one way or the other. The reason may even be because you are marrying someone from such tribe. And you just would feel better if you knew what to say. Or probably in a contest where it is a vantage. Or better still, for the sake of knowledge.
The Yoruba have different greeting ways for different situations. Go through the list to see them.
25 Ways Yorubas Greet That Would Surely Interest You
1. To Comperes, commentators, Broadcasters and all other online personalities.
Greeting – E Ku ètò o
2. One who is preparing for an event, especially a big one.
Greeting – E ku imura
3. One who is set to work, a civil servant and/or service provider.
Greeting – E yaa se ooo
4. A merchant, hawker or business person
Greeting – Ajé a waa oo
5. A fellow citizen or country men; especially in unfavourable economical condition
Greeting – A Ku ìlú yii ooo OR A Ku asiko yii oo
6. A student who is making preparations towards an examination or someone preparing for a particular course or presentation.
Greeting – E Ku igbaradi
7. On a lighter note, to jokingly greet someone who you think is enjoying life.
Greeting – E Ku imu’nkanje o
8. Someone who has just acquired an asset or completed a project.
Greeting – E Ku inawo ooo.
9. Someone who has just sent you a gift
Greeting – E Ku ànawósí oo
10. Fellow people in party celebrations together
Greeting – A Ku Àseye o
11. Someone who is on the same (especially on road) journey with you.
Greeting – E Ku okò ooo
12. Someone or people who you think is having pleasure especially in eating and drinking.
Greeting – E Ku faaji oo or E Ku miliki ooo
13. Greeting people you meet at home after being away for a while.
Greeting – E Ku ilé o
14. Greeting people who meet you at home after they have been away for a while.
Greeting – E Ku àbò o
15. Someone who is showing care to you either by checking on you, visiting you or sending you things.
Greeting – E Ku Ife
16. Greeting fellow civil servants or people who are returning after the day’s work.
Greeting – A Ku isé eni
17. Someone who is looking after their sick loved one
Greeting – E Ku itoju o
18. Someone who you meet on seat at a function.
Greeting – E Ku ìkàle
19. Greeting fellow prayer partners or people who have been or are having a session of prayer.
Greeting – E ku Adura o
20. Someone who is your constant reminder of something
Greeting – E Ku afokansiii
21. Someone who is returning after a long journey.
Greeting – E ku ìrìn o
22. Upon seeing a family member who had been away for quite sometime.
Greeting – E Ku ará yaa ooo
23. Someone who is closely listening to a particular programme or course.
Greeting – E Ku eeti’gbò
24. Greeting someone who is a muslim friend on a Friday
Greeting – E Ku jimoh oloyin ooo or A Ku ojó NLA ooo
25. Someone who is skilled in making things especially by hand
Greeting – Ise a yaa oo or owó a yaa oo.
In conclusion, ‘E’ in Yoruba is often used in the plural context or as a sign of respect to an individual. ‘O’ on the other side, is used in the singular context but not necessarily used to disrespect people, though some people do. But can be used largely for people younger to you.
