Classic, significant, original, and stylish nigerian surname along with their meaning.
The nigerian surname are primarily based on the major ethnic groups, the Yoruba and Igbo. The Yoruba are from the kingdom of Ile-Ife, while the Igbo are from the south-central and south-eastern regions of Nigeria and other parts of Africa. Both ethnic groups heavily impact the names and culture of the country. Nigeria is situated on the western coast of Africa, with an estimated population of 218 million. Keep reading this post ‘Best Nigerian Last Names Or Surnames’ for a compilation of Nigerian surnames that represent the country’s heritage and customs.
Best Nigerian Last Names Or Surnames, With Meanings
- Abara
Abara is a Nigerian surname of Igbo origin representing a spiritual connection. The name signifies a divine presence.
- Abdullahi
A person who follows God or serves the Almighty is referred to as Addullahi. This Nigerian last name has its roots in the Arabic language.
- Abiola
Abiola is a Nigerian surname of Yoruba descent which signifies someone who is born into wealth and honor.
- Abimbola
Abimbola is not a very common Nigerian surname and it signifies that a person is born into wealth. The origin of this Nigerian surname can be traced back to the Yoruba people.
- Abubakar
Abubakar is a well-known surname in Nigeria that originates from the Yoruba ethnic group. It signifies ‘noble’ in meaning.
- Adébáyọ̀
Adébáyọ̀ is a Nigerian surname derived from the African Yoruba tribe, symbolizing royalty, kingliness, or a crown.
- Adeoye
Adeoye, derived from the African ethnic group Yoruba, is a tribal Nigerian surname that translates to crown.
- Adesina
Adesina is a Nigerian surname that is commonly found across different parts of Nigeria. The last name from Nigeria is typically given to a child who has been eagerly anticipated. It originates from the Yoruba culture and symbolizes a crown that paves the path for the future.
- Adeyemi
The last name Adeyemi is commonly found among Yoruba tribe families. The term Adeyemi from Africa signifies a person who is deserving of becoming a ruler.
- Agbani
Agbani is a last name that originates from the Yoruba culture and is commonly associated with the expression Praise the Lord.
- Aguta Aguta is a last name that comes from the Igbo ethnic group and signifies ‘innumerable.’ As per a contribution from Uganda, it is also interpreted as ‘laughter.’
- Agwuegbo
Agwuegbo is a surname that is linked to overcoming difficulties and is traditionally associated with the Igbo people. It is considered to be a name that symbolizes triumph over challenges, particularly for women. The roots of this surname are deeply entrenched in Igbo culture, highlighting the resilience and strength of its bearers.
- Akerele
The Nigerian surname of Yoruba origin signifies ‘small yet powerful.’
- Akintola
Akintola, a Nigerian surname with origins in Yoruba, suggests that courage is just as respectable as prosperity.
- Akinyemi
Akinyemi is a strong Nigerian last name of Yoruba descent that connotes being destined for a military or warrior role.
- Akpabio
Originally derived from the Ibibio ethnic group in Africa, this Nigerian surname signifies a distinguished or high-ranking individual, possibly a leader.
- Aku
Aku is a last name in Nigeria, originating from the Igbo people. It symbolizes prosperity and financial well-being.
- Alana
Alana is commonly used as a Nigerian surname for girls.
- Alaneme
Alaneme originates from the Igbo people of Africa and is formed by combining two words. Ala signifies land, while neme indicates taking action.
- Ali
Ali is the name of an individual who is known for his courage and loyalty. Ali is a common Nigerian surname among Islamic communities worldwide, particularly in Nigeria, and has its origins in the Arabic language. It signifies a champion or a person of great height and status.
- Alison
Alison is a Greek surname that signifies ‘light.’ It has origins in England and Scotland as well, where it is a patronymic name indicating the son of Allen.
- Aliu
Aliu is a Nigerian surname that has its origins in English. It is used to describe someone who is considered exceptional or outstanding.
- Amaechi
Amaechi, a Nigerian surname of Igbo descent, signifies someone with the ability to foresee the future.
- Anenih
Anenih, a powerful Yoruba last name, signifies a surname that carries the presence of God.
- Asaju
Asaju refers to a chief or commander of fighters. It is a strong last name originating from Nigeria.
- Attah
Hailing from the Igala community in Africa, this Nigerian surname translates to ‘Father of all.’
- Awolowo
Awolowo is a Nigerian surname originating from the Yoruba tribe in Africa. This name signifies the reverence associated with the oracle.
- Azi
The Nigerian surname Azi, which is pronounced with emphasis as Azih and consists of only one syllable, is said to mean ‘infinite or unending.’
- Baba
The term ‘Baba’ is commonly used in various languages globally, particularly in Indian languages, to address an older person with a title meaning ‘father.’
- Babangida
An extension of the term ‘baba,’ this Nigerian surname from the Hausa culture represents the head of a family.
- Balogun
Balogun is a surname of African origin that has its roots in the Yoruba culture. It is a designation given to a family known for their prowess in battle.
- Bolaji
Bolaji is a frequently seen last name in Nigeria. It was a common name among the indigenous tribes of Africa.
- Bankole
Bankola is an uncommon last name that has origins in Nigeria, Africa. It has its roots in the Yoruba ethnic communities and was typically bestowed upon sons who assisted in construction activities.
- Bassey
Bassey, a surname originating from the Efik language of Nigeria, translates to ‘God’ or ‘The Lord.’
- Bello
Originating from the Latin word Bellus, Bello is a Nigerian last name that means attractive or good-looking.
- Bosede
This is a matronymic last name that comes from the Yoruba culture. It is used to indicate that the person was born on a Sunday.
- Chidubem
Chidubem is a Nigerian surname that is highly esteemed, representing someone who is always guided by a higher power.
- Chukwu
Chukwu is a surname of African Igbo origin, signifying ‘greatness’ or ‘a divine being or God.’
- Danjuma
Danjuma is a common Nigerian surname of Yoruba descent, signifying being born on a Friday.
- Esuol
Esuola is a Nigerian surname that comes from the Yoruba tribe and is associated with abundance of riches.
- Egbe
Derived from the Yoruba ethnicity, this Nigerian surname signifies ‘kite.’
- Etienam
The surname has a historical significance, translating to someone who is kind-hearted or actively engages in charitable acts. It comes from the Alwa Ibom and Calabar areas in southeast Nigeria and is widely used in the Caribbean.
- Emem
This distinctive African last name is unisex and signifies ‘tranquility’ or ‘serenity.’
- Eze
Eze is a popular Nigerian surname derived from the Igbo language. It is used as a title to symbolize honor and respect. The term ‘Eze’ translates to ‘king’ in English.
- Falade
Falade is an uncommon Nigerian surname. This particular African surname comes from the Yoruba ethnic group.
- Folorunsho
Folorunsho is a Nigerian surname of Yoruba origin that signifies being under God’s protection.
- Gbadamosi
The Nigerian last name is typically used for males and means ‘someone who is self-sufficient.’
- Guh
The Hebrew surname Guh translates to ‘gift of God’ and is frequently used as a family name in Nigeria.
- Hassan
The Nigerian surname Hassan, which is a patronymic name, originates from Arabic and means courageous, robust, and attractive young men.
- Ibeh
Ibeh is a Nigerian surname that comes from the Igbo people. It represents a connection of friendship, family, or possibly just acquaintanceship.
- Ibrahim
Ibrahim is likely the most frequently used surname in Nigeria. It is the Arabic equivalent of Avram in Hebrew and signifies the ‘Father of the Nation.’ Ibrahim was a Prophet in Islam sent by God.
- Igbinedion
This surname from Nigeria has its roots in Benin.
- Igwe
Igwe is a last name originating from the Igbo people and is exclusive to the royal family. It translates to ‘heaven.’
- Ihejirika
Ihejirika, a last name of Igbo origin, is also a nickname. This extravagant name translates to ‘I possess the greater one.’
- Ikande
Ikande is a name that represents an individual who possesses a great amount of affection. It is a family name that originates from Nigeria.
- Kalu
Kalu is a surname that is typically associated with males and originates from the African Igbo tribe. It is linked to the deity known as the ‘Thunder God.’
- Kazah
This Arabic surname signifies the origin of light and is frequently seen in Nigeria.
- Kikelomo
Kikelomo is a Yoruba surname that is associated with females. It represents a child that should receive love, care, and affection.
- Kporaro
It is an uncommon last name in Nigeria. It symbolizes advancement.
- Lawal
This well-known Nigerian surname signifies a ‘handsome young man.’ Abass Lawal is a renowned football player from Nigeria.
- Meremikwu
Meremikwu is a last name with Igbo roots, which signifies optimism by conveying the idea of improvement and progress.
- Mohammed
Mohammed is a frequently used name and surname within the Islamic community globally. The name originates from Arabic and signifies someone who is admired or praised.
- Njoku
Njoku is a popular Nigerian surname that comes from the Igbo tribe, and it is associated with the deity that protects the Yam.
- Nnadi
The surname Nnadi, of Igbo descent, signifies positivity and spiritual essence as it translates to ‘my father is alive’ or ‘my God is alive.’
- Nwadike
Nwadike is a Nigerian surname that comes from the Igbo tribe in Africa. It represents a strong lineage and is associated with a powerful individual.
- Nwaeze
Originating from the tribal groups in Africa, this Igbo name is a well-known Nigerian last name that signifies being the offspring of a king.
- Nwaigbo
Nwaigbo is a Nigerian surname that is specific to the Igbo tribe in Africa. It signifies being the offspring of the Igbo tribe and identifies a member of the clan as a baby.
- Nwaike
The surname Nwaike has its roots in Africa, specifically in the Igbo culture.
- Obi
Obi, a common last name among the Igbo population in Africa, translates to ‘heart’.
- Obiaka
The Nigerian surname Obiaka is associated with the value of family and reflects the belief that the home is the most important. It is a surname with roots in the Igbo culture.
- Obiakaeze
This family name is of Igbo descent. Despite the Africans’ reverence for their ruler, this particular name signifies that ‘the King surpasses the household.’
- Obiakpani
Obiakpani represents a sense of calm and understanding. This Igbo last name signifies the conclusion of uncertainty and a state of tranquility for the heart.
- Obianagha
Obianagha is a Nigerian surname that signifies a warrior’s name and is derived from the Igbo clan, referencing someone who arrived to engage in battle.
- Odoemene
The origin of this last name can be traced back to Nigeria, where, based on the Igbo language, Odoemene translates to ‘yellow hesitation.’
- Ojo
The name Ojo, originating from the Yoruba ethnic group in Nigeria, translates to ‘vigor, shine, or splendor.’
- Okeke
In Igbo tradition, Eke is considered a specific day of the week. Okeke is used to describe individuals who were born on the day of
- Okon
This African last name signifies darkness and is used for individuals born during nighttime.
- Okoro
Okoro signifies ‘greatness.’ This surname comes from the Igbo community and describes a child born to a free man.
- Okoturo
This Nigerian last name originates from the Igbo culture in Africa.
- Okpara
This is a surname that originates from Ikpede and signifies someone who is wealthy or influential. This particular last name indicates that the individual is the eldest in their family.
- Okusanya
The surname Okusanya originates from the Yoruba ethnic group in Nigeria and is seen as a representation of the idea that one will be compensated for enduring hardships.
- Oladoyinbo
This surname is of Igbo origin and is based on the father’s name, reflecting a person who is highly esteemed.
- Olanrewaju
Olanrewaju is a surname that comes from Yoruba tradition and signifies prosperity and progress in the years to come.
- Olowe
Olowe, a last name rooted in the Yoruba culture, signifies an individual with the ability to reach out to numerous individuals for assistance.
- Oni
In Nigerian culture, individuals who are born on sacred land are known as Oni, as seen in their surnames.
- Onyema
Nigeria is known for its strong religious beliefs, and the surname Onyema reflects this by questioning who can understand God’s intentions. This name has its origins in the Igbo tribe.
- Onyilogwu
Onyilogwu is a popular surname in Nigeria that originated among the Igbo community. It is associated with individuals who are believed to be immune to the effects of witchcraft.
- Osondu
Originally derived from the Igbo ethnic group in Africa, the surname Osondu symbolizes the act of fleeing for survival.
- Owayale
Owayale is a name of Yoruba and Nigerian origin that signifies the return of the river goddess to her home. It is a well-known surname among the Yoruba people.
- Oyinlola
The last name is a Nigerian surname derived from the Yoruba community and represents wealth and sweetness, particularly for females. The Ondo region of Nigeria has the largest number of people with this surname.
- Peter
Peter’s surname comes from various origins, possibly originating from the Greek word Petros, which translates to rock or stone, or from the Latin word ‘Petra.’ A Nigerian heavyweight boxer named Samuel Peter was born in 1980.
- Popoola
The last name Popoola, in its essence, signifies that individuals who have a fondness for God are highly intelligent. This surname originates from the Yoruba community in Africa.
- Prest
Prest is a surname derived from the Old English word ‘priest’, which originally meant a priest in Britain’s Anglo-Saxon tribes.
- Rabiu
The surname Rabui is commonly used in Nigeria and has its origins in the Hausa language, carrying significance or meaning.
- Rafiu
In Islamic belief, Rafiu is considered the Networking God. The surname originates from the Arabic word ‘rafa,’ which signifies raising or lifting up. In Nigerian culture, the name also connotes nobility.
- Raheem
The Islamic-Arabic last name represents one of the names of Allah. It is derived from Abdu r-Raḥīm, meaning ‘servant of merciful,’ in a shortened form.
- Razzaq
Razzaq has its origins in the languages of Persian, Arabic, and Urdu. In Islam, it is considered to be one of the various names of God. This term signifies a provider and also conveys the meaning of being sustained.
- Sami
Sami is a common name that originates from Arabic and is commonly used among Nigerians.
- Samuel
Samuel is a widely used surname globally and has its roots in Hebrew. Its meaning is ‘name of God’ as per its origins. In the Old Testament, Samuel is known as the final ruling judge.
- Sanusi
The last name comes from Libya and indicates someone from Senouss, a region in Libya. The Libyan dynasty was known as Sanusi until it was overthrown in a coup in 1969.
- Shehu
The surname Shehu, which has Arabic roots, is linked to a person in power or a leader, such as a sheikh.
- Sulaimom
The term ‘Sulaimom’ in Hebrew means a person who is peaceful. It is a variation of the name Solomon in English. Solomon, who was both the King of Israel and a Prophet in Islam, was known for his wisdom.
- Taiwo
In African mythology, Taye and Taiye are believed to be the first set of twins born in the world. The name Taiwo is a Yoruba last name associated with these twins.
- Tersoo
Tersoo is a popular last name in Nigeria among the Tiv people. It represents paternal affection and care.
- Tyjani
Tyjani is a surname that comes from the Hausa language. It is a name that can be used for both males and females, signifying a present or something of immense value that is incomparable.
- Uba
Uba is a last name that comes from Africa. It carries the same meaning as ‘The Lord’ or ‘Father.’
- Uchce
This last name originates from the Igbo people of Africa and signifies thoughts related to God or The Father.
- Uche
Just like Uche and prevalent among the Igbo people, Uche denotes will, perception, or purpose. Another form of this last name is Uchechukwu which signifies ‘God’s will.’
- Uchenna
The name Uchenna is associated with the Igbo language and culture. This Nigerian surname of Igbo origin symbolizes the ideas of God.
- Ukpabi
Ukpabi is a female or male name used among the Igbo people of Nigeria. ‘Ukpabi is the name of a deity. This Nigerian last name originates from the Igbo tribe in Africa.’
- Ugochukwu
The name Ugochukwu is a Nigerian surname with Igbo roots that means ‘God’s glory’ and also signifies the ‘Eagle belonging to God.
- Umaru
Umaru is an old Arabic term that has its origins in Urdu. It comes from the word ‘umr’, which translates to age or life.
- Umeh
The surname Umeh signifies ‘strength’ and has its roots in the Igbo community in Africa.
- Umunna
Umunna is a well-known family name in Nigeria and other regions of Africa, originating from the Igbo culture and meaning ‘The Father’s children.’
- Unigwe
Unigwe, a last name of Igbo descent, translates to ‘heaven.’
- Uthman
Uthman, a surname with Arabic roots, is a mythical name that signifies wisdom and strength. This name is associated with a wise and influential individual who was a companion of Prophet Mohammad.
- Uzoegbu
Uzoegbu is a Nigerian last name that comes from the Igbo tribe and signifies the protection or security of someone who is knowledgeable.
- Yakubu
The last name Yakubu originates from the name Jacob and is derived from Swahili, signifying ‘Supplanter.’
- Joseph
The surname Yusuf is frequently used in Islamic communities, particularly in Nigeria, and has origins in various cultures such as Aramaic, Persian, Turkish, and Arabic. In Hebrew, the name carries the meaning of ‘God increases.’
- Zabu
Zabu is a Nigerian surname that signifies ‘gold.’
Frequently Asked Questions
Family names or surnames typically symbolize a family’s heritage and connection to history. They offer insight into our ancestors and the origins of the family. When searching for Nigerian last names, consider the list provided and delve into the unique details of each name.
