Naming a child is a significant decision for expectant parents, connecting the child to their roots, culture, and community. This guide presents a diverse collection of Nigerian baby boys’ names from various tribes, each with its unique meaning, to assist parents in finding the perfect name for their new addition.
Igbo baby boy names:
The Igbo people, from the southeastern part of Nigeria, hold their lineage and ancestors in high regard. Their names reflect qualities they wish upon their children, remembrance of ancestors, or significant events. Here are some Igbo names:
- Akachukwu – The hand of God
- Buchi – Is God
- Chibuzo – God is the way
- Chukwuemeka – God has done it
- Dike – Heroic or Brave
- Ekele – Praise
- Ikenna – Father’s strength
- Kelechi – Thank God
- Nnamdi – My father is alive
- Maduabuchi – Humans are not God
Hausa Baby Boy Names:
The Hausa tribe, mainly located in the northern part of Nigeria, often choose names with Islamic roots, reflecting their deep religious beliefs and values. Here is a list of Hausa baby boy names and their meanings:
- Abubakar: Father of the camel
- Bashir: Bringer of good news
- Dauda: The Hausa form of David, meaning beloved
- Farouk: One who can distinguish between right and wrong
- Ibrahim: The Hausa version of Abraham, meaning father of many
- Jamal: Beauty
- Nasir: Helper or protector
- Suleiman: The Hausa version of Solomon, meaning man of peace
- Tanimu: Mine is faith
- Yusuf: The Hausa form of Joseph, meaning God will add/increase
Yoruba Baby Boy Names
The Yoruba people, mostly in the southwestern part of Nigeria, have a unique naming system influenced by the circumstances surrounding the child’s birth. Here are some Yoruba names:
- Adebayo – The Crown meets joy
- Babatunde – Father returns
- Damilola – Blessed with wealth
- Folarin – Walk with wealth
- Ifeoluwa – God’s love
- Kolawole – Bringer of wealth
- Oluwaseun – Thank God
- Temitope – Mine is worth giving thanks for
- Yemi – God has given me satisfaction
- Adeola – Crown of wealth
Calabar Baby Boy Names:
The Calabar people, from the coastal southeastern part of Nigeria, offer names reflecting their rich cultural diversity and connection to their environment. Here are some Calabar names:
- Asuquo: Born into wealth
- Effiong: Born into royalty
- Etefia: King of wealth
- Idorenyin: Hope in God
- Inyang: River
- Itoro: Praise or Glory
- Mfoniso: Good luck
- Nsikan: Nothing is too heavy for God
- Udeme: My share or My portion
Edo baby boy names:
Originating from the ancient Benin Kingdom, the Edo people have a rich history reflected in their names. Here are some Edo names:
- Ehigie – It is God’s will
- Osaze – Favoured by God
- Osarodion – God is the pillar
- Osaretin – God is by my side
- Osemudiamen – God stands with me
- Osagie – God sent
- Eghosa – God’s time
- Iyare – Unbreakable and unstoppable
- Uwadiae – Wealth stand
- Efosa – The wealth of God
Choosing a name for your child is an act of love, a prayer, and a gift that they will carry throughout their life. So, choose thoughtfully.