Nigerian Baby Names

Updated: May 26, 2022 by MomsWhoThink Staff | Leave a comment

From Bunmi to Nasha to Enitan and beyond, this list of Nigerian baby names is filled with a variety of beautiful names for both boys and girls. Peruse the list, explore the meanings of the names, and make a selection for your child that has meaning and purpose.

Jaiyesimi – Jaiyesimi is a Nigerian baby name from oriki or praise poetry. It means “one who believes in enjoying life.”
Arzika Arzika is a Nigerian baby name that refers to a child born after a hard labor. Traditionally used for girls, it's also become popular with boys who give their mother a tough time!
Ajayi Ajayi is a unique Nigerian baby name. It means “born face down,” which isn't the most poetic, but the name itself flows off the tongue in a lovely way. The opposite name is Ige or “born feet first.”
Ibukun Ibukun is a Nigerian baby name that means “blessings.” Variations include Ibukunade (“the blessings have come to me”) and Ibukunoluwa (“the blessings of God”).
Sijuade Sijuade is a cool Nigerian baby name that means “eyes on the crown.” Another version is Sijuwola or “eyes on wealth.”
Afamefuna Afamefuna is a Nigerian baby name from the Igbo tribe. It means “my name will not be lost.”
Temidire Temidire is a Nigerian baby name that also doubles as a traditional blessing. It comes from the Igbo region.
Bunmi Bunmi is a Nigerian baby name that means “to be my gift.” Usually meant for girls, its sweet sentiment can also be applied to boys as well.
Niyilolawa Niyilolawa is a Nigerian baby name that means “the wealth is here.” It can be shortened in both feminine and masculine ways; potential nicknames include Ni, Lola and Lolawa.
Jolasun Jolasun is a fun, gender neutral Nigerian baby name. It means “let the riches come forth.”
Maseso Maseso is an old Nigerian baby name that compels the child to be fruitful and productive. Shorten it to Mase for a more modern nickname.
Sunkanmi Sunkanmi is a unisex Nigerian baby name. Meaning “draw close to me,” it represents the act of a mother gently and lovingly cradling her baby.
Anaruwa Anaruwa is a Nigerian baby name that means “water bearer.” You can also shorten it to Ruwa for a cute and gender neutral Nigerian name.
Tiwa Tiwa is a gender neutral Nigerian baby name with a lot of meaning. It stands for “one who owns the crown,” or in other words, a king or queen.
Machie Machie is a Nigerian baby name from the Igbo tribe. If you've ever lost a gem, a “machie” is a replacement for a precious and valuable stone.
Kwento Kwento is a very progressive Nigerian baby name. It means “one who protects the family from destruction,” and in recent years, it's being used for girls as well as boys.
Nasha Nasha is a Nigerian baby name that can weather a lot of storms. It's given to babies born during the rainy season.
Maduenu Maduenu is a poetic Nigerian baby name that refers to the impermanence of life and the fleeting nature of the world. Though it looks masculine, it's actually unisex.
Ogechi Ogechi is a Nigerian baby name with a fun meaning. You use the word for victory or to celebrate the successful ending of a long challenge or contest.
Tejumola Tejumola is another Nigerian baby name that comes from praise poetry. It means “one who looks forward to better days.”
Obiajulu Obiajulu is a beautiful Nigerian baby name. Originating from the Igbo language, it means “my heart is at peace.”
Morenikeji Morenikeji is a Nigerian baby name with a literal meaning: “This child resembles me.” It's used with both boys and girls who resemble their parents.
Enitan Enitan is a Nigerian baby name that can be used for both girls and boys. Translated as “a person with history,” it'll give real weight and meaning to your child's birth.
Maduka Maduka is a Nigerian baby name that translates to “people are worth more than riches.” It's a beautiful name for a beautiful spirit, so give it to a child born with grace.
Olumoroti Olumoroti is a devout Nigerian baby name. It means “I stand with God,” so it'll be perfect for boys and girls alike being born into faithful households.