fikaní

Fikaní is a term originating from the Nigerian pidgin English and is widely used across Nigeria and other West African countries. It generally refers to a person who is an opportunist, someone who looks for personal gain, often in a cunning or deceitful way. The word implies a sense of opportunism and a tendency to exploit situations or people for one's own benefit. It can also be used to describe someone who is sly, shrewd, or good at getting what they want through indirect or underhanded means.

The concept of fikaní is often associated with navigating complex social and economic environments where individuals may need to be resourceful and adaptable to succeed. While it can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of integrity, it is also sometimes used to describe someone who is street-smart and knows how to survive or thrive in challenging circumstances. The term's meaning can vary slightly depending on the context and the specific region, but the core idea of opportunistic self-interest remains consistent. It is a dynamic word that reflects cultural nuances and the everyday experiences of people in its regions of use.