OKADA

I did a little of history in high school, not because it was compulsory as a science student, but because of the fact that I love to gather knowledge. There are some words we use but we do not know where they originated from, especially as Nigerians. One of these words is OKADA.

In Nigeria, an Okada is the general name we called a motorcycle taxi.

The name Okada was borrowed from Okada Air, a Nigerian airline, now inactive. The airline was named after Okada town near Benin city, the hometown of its owner, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion.

The ironic humour of an airline's name being used for commercial motorcycle, as well as local familiarity with Okada Air, caused the nickname of Okada to outlive the airline from where it originated from, which many Nigerians no longer remember.

Why do people use motorcycle taxis (OKADA)

— They are readily available
— They easily navigate narrow, bad roads and remote areas and as well meander through the hectic urban traffic thereby meeting the transport needs of many urban residents, where motorcycles are permitted.
— Means of livelihood for some by transporting passengers swiftly to their doorsteps.

Nothing has an advantage without a disadvantage especially when it's not used for the purpose it's meant for. That's when the use is being abused.

Disadvantage

The only disadvantage associated with the use of motorcycle taxis is, increased occurrences of risky riding and accidents, especially on Nigerian roads.

Contribution

As a Nigerian or Non-Nigerian, what are those words you have heard or learnt that are not original English words but was named after a person, body or an event?

Thanks for reading, do have a great weekend!