Police, Army… Nigerian agencies that have adopted viral ‘No Gree For Anybody’ slogan

“No Gree For Anybody”, It erupted in 2024, evolving into a symbol of resilience, flooding social platforms with memes and posts that demanded attention. 

Originating from Nigerian slang, the phrase, “No gree for anybody,” which surfaced sometime towards the end of last 2023 denote resistance against bullying, ignited discussions after police cautioned against its potential rebellious undertones. 

Amidst Nigeria’s challenges, it morphed into a collective anthem for navigating adversity. Yet, police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi’s warning sparked a social media debate, deeming the seemingly innocuous phrase a potent and perilous slogan in the realm of security.

“The new slogan for 2023 and 2024 for our young ones is ‘No dey gree for anybody’. We have been informed by intelligence that this slogan is coming from a revolutionary sector that may likely cause problems across the country,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

“No dey gree for anybody is being seen as a normal talk, but in the security community, we have seen it as a very, very dangerous slogan,” Adejobi said.

Who Started No Gree For Anybody?

So, who lit the fuse for this whole “No Gree For Anybody” craze? It all started with Nigerian DJ Mims Agbaye. But there’s more to the story. The roots of this phrase go back to a gospel song by Sister Agatha Moses called ‘I No Go Gree’. The song didn’t use the exact words, but its message of hanging in there set the stage for the slogan.

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF)

In a Friday follow-up post,Adejobi emphasized the police’s role in advising on early warning signs of danger, urging Nigerians not to misuse the 2024 slogan. 

He cautioned against attacking security forces and advocated for a peaceful approach. Despite police intelligence discouraging its use, many Nigerians support the slogan for combating crime. 

Responding, Adejobi acknowledged the slogan’s reasonability but highlighted the challenge of handling the unreasonable. He stressed the need for a broader understanding and urged people to apply the slogan judiciously. 

The police spokesperson emphasized being reasonable in embracing the slogan for the country’s well-being.

“Do not take the 2024 slogan for granted

“Do not abuse the slogan and capitalize on it to be attacking security operatives while discharging their duties. Be reasonable with the slogan, sue for, and embrace peace anywhere you find yourself, even at home. It goes well with our dear country.”

Adejobi said, “The Police are in the best position to advise and educate Nigerians on possible early warning signs of an impending danger as a civil and people-oriented institution.

“Many don’t (sic) understand the slogan, and we need to view it from a wider perspective. Our advice still stands. Be reasonable when you want to apply or use the slogan.”

The Nigerian Army

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters implores Nigerians to take proactive measures against terrorism in 2024, urging them to report suspicious activities for prompt action. 

Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, emphasizes citizen involvement, stating, “Make Nigerians no gree for terrorists this year. You see something, you say something and we assure them of doing something.” 

Using the trending slang ‘no gree for anybody,’ he encourages resilience against external influences. Despite concerns from the Nigeria Police Force about potential crises, Buba asserts the military’s commitment to locating and eliminating terrorists. 

“Make Nigerians no gree for terrorists this year. You see something, you say something and we assure them of doing something,” he said in pidgin.

The Nigeria Customs Services (NCS)

Creatively, the Nigeria Customs Services (NCS) seized the trending slang ‘no gree for anybody’ to create their own catchphrase: “It’s Friday!!! No gree for smugglers.” 

READ ALSO: Idan, body count and cryptic pregnancy… 10 most used slangs in 2023 and their meaning

This innovative approach aimed to intensify awareness against illegal activities in the country. The NCS, led by its proactive team, adopted the popular phrase to discourage smuggling and enhance border security.

Reminding citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The phrase can become a rallying cry, uniting Nugerians in the fight against smuggling, to safeguard national interests. 

“It’s Friday!!! No gree for smugglers.”