Pidgin is one of the most widely-spoken languages across the region, even though it is not officially recognised.
The launch is part of the World Service's biggest expansion since the 1940s, following a government funding boost announced in 2016. Pidgin will soon be joined by 10 more new services in Africa and Asia. The WS also plans to offer more mobile and video content and a greater social media presence.
It will also enhance its television services across Africa, including more than 30 new TV programmes for partner broadcasters in sub-Saharan Africa.
Arabic and Russian programming will also be boosted in the 2020 project.