Akata

Akata is a Nigerian slang term commonly used to refer to people of African descent who were born or raised outside of Africa, particularly in the United States. It is derived from the Yoruba word “akata,” which means “wildcat” and is used to describe someone who is foreign or disconnected from their African roots.

An alternative in-depth description of the term “akata” reveals that it is used in Nigerian and West African communities to label individuals who are perceived as “foreign” or disconnected from their African cultures due to their upbringing or experiences in the Western world. The term is often used playfully or lightheartedly, but it can also carry negative connotations when used derogatorily to question one’s authenticity or connection to Africa.

Example 1: “Though Adaku was born and raised in California, her Nigerian relatives jokingly called her ‘akata’ whenever she visited, teasing her for her American accent and unfamiliarity with traditional customs.”

Example 2: “When Nnamdi returned to Nigeria after studying in the UK for several years, some of his friends playfully referred to him as ‘akata’ due to his British mannerisms and vocabulary.”