Plain language

Why plain language#

Although English is Nigeria's official language, it is not the first language of many users. Every complicated sentence quietly excludes someone.

Plain language is also faster for expert users. Nobody has ever complained that a bank explained a charge too clearly.

Guidelines#

Use short, common words#

Opt for words that a market trader and a lawyer would both use.

| Instead of | Write | | --- | --- | | utilise | use | | commence | start | | terminate | end, cancel | | insufficient | not enough | | remuneration | pay |

Keep sentences short#

Aim for an average of 15 words and one idea per sentence. If a sentence needs a comma to make sense, consider making it two.

Retire "kindly"#

"Kindly" is the most overworked word in Nigerian corporate English. In interfaces, it adds length without adding politeness — the polite thing is to be clear.

Avoid officialese#

"Do the needful", "same has been forwarded", "as per", "revert" — words like these signal bureaucracy, and bureaucracy signals delay. Say the specific thing instead.

Front-load the point#

Put the most important information first: in the sentence, in the paragraph, on the screen. Users on slow connections may only ever see the top of the page.

Write how you would say it#

Read your copy aloud. If you wouldn't say it to a customer standing in front of you, don't ship it.

Testing plainness#

• Read the copy to someone outside the team. Ask them to say it back in their own words.
• Check reading level — aim for roughly age 12–14 comprehension for general audiences.
• Watch session recordings or usability tests for re-reading: hesitation on a sentence is data.

Related guidance#

• Nigerian English
• Error messages
• Inclusive writing