Authentic African Last Names

**Jesse** · Feb 12, 2009 , 09:42 PM

Hope you're all having a great day. I'm Jesse, a new member who signed up today. Have a question about African surnames/last names:

Do any of you know a few authentic West African last names? For some reason web searches have proved useless with this.

There's a creative writing project I've given myself and since I just learned I have Ibo/Igbo roots on my mother's side, I'd like to give one of my main fictitious characters a last name from either Nigeria or West Africa.

Thanks to anyone who responds with info on this. Will check out other villagers posting on Palava and try and add my 2 cents, to give back.

**Big-K** · Feb 13, 2009 , 05:18 AM

You know African names always say something about the person's lineage, so can you tell us a little bit more about this character?

**Ranter** · Feb 13, 2009 , 08:00 AM

'Akpu-nku' means big tree stump still heavily rooted to the ground.

**Abraxas** · Feb 13, 2009 , 08:11 AM

Hi, Jesse (JJC)!

Do any of you know a few authentic West African last names? For some reason web searches have proved useless with this.

Here goes a few:

(1) Azikiwe (2) Awolowo (3) Bello (4) Balewa (5) Akintola (6) Okotie-Eboh (7) Nzeogwu (8) Onwuatuegwu (9) Okafor (10) Okereke (11) Okeke (12) Okonkwo (13) Okoye (14) Okorie (15) Obasanjo (16) Babangida (17) Buhari (18) Dimka (19) Okar (20) Diya (21) Odili (22) Ibori (23) Igbinedion (24) Alamieyeseigha (25) Yar'Adua (26) Asari-Dokubo (27) Jomo-Gbomo (28) Anikulapo-Kuti (29) Iwu (30) Anenih (31) Bamgboshe (32) Biobaku (33) Tinibu (34) Akinjide (35) Akinyemi (36) Akiloye (37) Adeyemi (38) Adesida (39) Omehia (40) Sekibo (41) Amaechi (42) Bankole (43) Nnamani (44) Ayim (45) Okadigbo (46) Ironsi (47) Ojukwu (48) Danjuma (49) Effiong (50) Akpabio (51) Attah (52) Chukwumereije (53) Akunyili (54) Iweala (55) Okonjo (56) Ezekwesili (57) Achebe (58) Soyinka (59) Solarin (60) Gbadamosi (61) Olanrewaju (62) Magoro(63) Madaki (64) Jang (65) Oyinlola (66) Oyenusi (67) Onyejekwe (68) Onwudiwe (70) Jakande (71) Kalejaiye (72) Igwe (73) Eze (74) Obi (75) Ngige (76) Uba (77) Kalu (78) Orji (79) Ohakim (80) Egwu (81) Adesina (82) Adeoye (83) Falana (84) Fagbure (85) Jaja (86) Okilo (87) Okiro (88) Balogun (89) Alakija (90) Akenzua (91) Akerele (92) Ademola (93) Onobanjo (94) Aguda (95) Okpara (96) Mbanefo (97) Mbadinuju (98) Boro (99) Ekwensi (100) Gowon (101) Saro-Wiwa

Muchas gracias.

Don Juan-Carlos ABRAXAS (III)

**HolyPagan** · Feb 13, 2009 , 09:40 AM

Originally Posted by Ranter

'Akpu-nku' means big tree stump still heavily rooted to the ground.

yeah Ranter, As if you will want to deal with any body whose last name is
Akpu-nku. who wants to deal with that kind of akpuruka name and the person who holds it.

You might as well be walking around known as Mr Isikwere-onwu.

**nero africanus** · Feb 13, 2009 , 01:33 PM

african names then to have meanings as well and you might want want to consider the meaning of any african name you might want to use.

**IZONERE** · Feb 13, 2009 , 02:05 PM

What first name have you decided for the character? The last name will need to match the ethnicity of the first name. What part of Nigeria do you want the character to be from? Whatever name you choose is going to depend a lot on the character.

**thekingsjester** · Feb 13, 2009 , 02:44 PM

You might also need to consider certain aspects of character because certain 'African/Nigerian' names have come to be synonymous with certain characteristics for instance if the character is laid back, Umaru Musa Yaradua would suffice. If the character is evil, Ibrahim Babangida would do, if the character is loud and brash, Olusegun Obasanjo definitely sounds nice. If he is sinister and wears dark goggles, Sani Abacha is your best bet. If you know the character is bad but you just can't put your finger on what it is, Goodluck Jonathan is definitely a good option. If the character is criminally ambitious Atiku Abubakar sounds nice. If you just want to use a name that's spelt in one way and pronounced in another, Morgan Tsvangira is perfect and so on and so forth...I hope this helps

(TKJ in mischief making mode and lovin' it)

**elgaxton** · Feb 13, 2009 , 03:54 PM

Tamunosaki, Oburumu, Tumbranasoki, Tamarabraukemi, TanigogoroBanigogor( Izonere Friend name

).

All these are Ijaw names so enjoy

**Jesse** · Feb 13, 2009 , 08:01 PM

Thanks A LOT for all your help!

Big-K, I'm not a professional writer and I haven't got the characters or even the storyline completely mapped out yet. What is true is that character is a male doctor of "mixed" lineage (African/Caucasian). For now, here is the nature of his character:

He is both brave and slightly reckless; wonderfully strong and sometimes very stubborn. He's haunted by a challenging family past. Much of his scientific work is based on helping people. This is because of the pain he has watched others go through early on.

There's also an African female character who is the doctor's assistant (and his hidden weapon/potential lover). For now her first name is Amaka. My limited web search reveals that the name is Ibo and means "Beautiful", or "God is beautiful". Please correct this if it is incorrect. I'm not sure what I want her last name to be, either.

Another post to follow this ...

**Big-K** · Feb 13, 2009 , 08:12 PM

Originally Posted by Jesse

He is both brave and slightly reckless; wonderfully strong and sometimes very stubborn.

Based on this part, the name will start with AKIN if you settle for a Yoruba name. ....In Things Fall Aprt, there's a similar Igbo character named OKONKWO. I'm sure there are equivalents in other languages

**Jesse** · Feb 13, 2009 , 08:18 PM

Forgot to add, I still haven't even come up with his first name yet! He is strong. My only problem is he is not exactly "rooted" or "grounded", at least not emotionally, or not at first anyway. But it's something to keep in mind, so thanks!

Abraxus, where do I begin? Thank you so much for the exhaustive list. In a few minutes I will review it to see if one of the names could work (looking up meanings)!

Elgaxton, thanks so much! After getting through Abraxus's list, its on to yours ... what awesome sounding names you guys are providing me! I'm grateful indeed.

Nero, point noted. It was always my intention to find meanings for whatever names I use. But first I need to be able to locate the names!

Izonere, I'm not going to match his name according to one culture/ethnicity. He is of "mixed" lineage. So far I'm thinking the name "Elijah" (or "Eli" for short) might do it. But frankly I'm undecided right now.

TKJ, whoah, that was an education! Thanks. I will keep all those names/meanings in mind. Trying to stay away from the whole 2-dimensional "villain" vs. "hero" thing for now. Just personal taste

I want all my characters to come across as a mixture of bad and good - just like most human beings. ... Then again, I could change my mind LOL (and often do).

**Jesse** · Feb 13, 2009 , 08:28 PM

Originally Posted by Big-K

Based on this part, the name will start with AKIN if you settle for a Yoruba name. ....In Things Fall Aprt, there's a similar Igbo character named OKONKWO. I'm sure there are equivalents in other languages

You've just reminded me to keep rhythm in mind. Does Okonkwo literally mean "falling apart"?

There's a beautiful rhythm to the name "Okonkwo". I would definitely love to be in a waiting room, and hear that "Dr. Okonkwo" is ready to see me.

... And yes, things are most certainly going to fall apart for him and others (I hate having to drag my characters through the mud).

You say the name could start with "Akin" ... What is the meaning of Akin?

**Miliki Way** · Feb 13, 2009 , 08:40 PM

Welucomu o, Jesse (Ahem! Why do I think you're not quite a new villager?)

A good name for your character is BALOGUN which can be loosely translated as warrior.

**Jesse** · Feb 13, 2009 , 10:47 PM

Welucoma o, Miliki Way - Did I get that right?? (Pssst ... Just found this site yesterday but it's an intriguing thought

What language/dialect have you just used. Is what you just said pidgin? It's very cool.

**Miliki Way** · Feb 13, 2009 , 11:37 PM

Originally Posted by Jesse

Welucoma o, Miliki Way - Did I get that right?? (Pssst ... Just found this site yesterday but it's an intriguing thought

What language/dialect have you just used. Is what you just said pidgin? It's very cool.

Yes. Its a pidgin english version of welcome.

If you hang around long enough, villager Abraxas (holds a PhD in Pidgin English) just might convert you to an expert in pidgin... just like he did villager Rose (one of our NVS African American sista).

**Jesse** · Feb 13, 2009 , 11:44 PM

I would love to be a convert! The best I can do now - a little lame - is look up pidgin on Wiki. It sounds amazing ... well I haven't actually heard it but based on the way it reads ...

**Bill Carson** · Feb 16, 2009 , 02:51 PM

Originally Posted by Miliki Way

Welucomu o, Jesse (Ahem! Why do I think you're not quite a new villager?)

A good name for your character is BALOGUN which can be loosely translated as warrior.

Miliki Way,

I thought Balogun was a thief In the 9ja Police Force?

**elgaxton** · Feb 18, 2009 , 09:40 AM

Originally Posted by Jesse

I would love to be a convert! The best I can do now - a little lame - is look up pidgin on Wiki. It sounds amazing ... well I haven't actually heard it but based on the way it reads ...

There's an NVS Pidgin English Dictionary, hol a sec

This is the link but its not working cos of the Newly Updated NVS, Let me rush to Admin then back to u.

**elgaxton** · Feb 18, 2009 , 10:40 AM

Check Here!

**Oru-Ama** · Feb 18, 2009 , 07:37 PM

Originally Posted by thekingsjester

You might also need to consider certain aspects of character because certain 'African/Nigerian' names have come to be synonymous with certain characteristics for instance if the character is laid back, Umaru Musa Yaradua would suffice. If the character is evil, Ibrahim Babangida would do, if the character is loud and brash, Olusegun Obasanjo definitely sounds nice. If he is sinister and wears dark goggles, Sani Abacha is your best bet. If you know the character is bad but you just can't put your finger on what it is, Goodluck Jonathan is definitely a good option. If the character is criminally ambitious Atiku Abubakar sounds nice. If you just want to use a name that's spelt in one way and pronounced in another, Morgan Tsvangira is perfect and so on and so forth...I hope this helps

(TKJ in mischief making mode and lovin' it)

Ha! Chineke!

**Jesse** · Feb 18, 2009 , 09:21 PM

Originally Posted by elgaxton

Check Here!

El, thanks for the attempt. Not sure why this link isn't working (goes back to this thread), but I thank you for your efforts!

**elgaxton** · Feb 19, 2009 , 02:37 PM

Originally Posted by Jesse

El, thanks for the attempt. Not sure why this link isn't working (goes back to this thread), but I thank you for your efforts!

Oh Just check the lounge, U'll see the pidgin dictionary there

**Auspicious** · Feb 19, 2009 , 06:21 PM

* * *

Hi, Jesse!

(Welcome Abaord, we just met today)

Here are a few Yoruba ones (and they are REAL too, ok?):

1. Ajanlekoko ("The Dog is chasing the Wolf")

2. Omiata ("Pepperwater")

3. Apeloko ("One who works late on the Farm" - a former driver we had)

(..to be continued if when I remember more..)

This...is Auspicious.

**Writer Girl** · Feb 26, 2009 , 07:37 PM

Anini and Osunbor could be nice names too!

**Ajanlekoko** · Apr 17, 2009 , 07:39 PM

I don laugh tire, my ribs dey pain me. If I faint, una go carry me o.

**AfricanHeart** · Jul 14, 2010 , 12:35 PM

Hi all, I'm new here. I've been searching the internet finding out more about African names and the meanings. I read this discussion, it seemed interesting, informative and fun and I want to join in. My reasons are personal. I was wondering if anyone can help. I would like to know some Nigerian names that would be given to a female born on wednesday and what are the supposed characteristics of those born on wednesday. I have looked into the Ghanain name Akua and read an article that the characteristic of wednesday borns is related to 'evil'. I am hoping the Nigerian form is more positive. Please let me know. Thank you!

**Ajanlekoko** · Jul 19, 2010 , 11:04 PM

Originally Posted by Bill Carson

Miliki Way,

I thought Balogun was a thief In the 9ja Police Force?

You people will not kill me in this village. roflmbao!

**Myne Whitman** · Jul 20, 2010 , 06:12 AM

I think only one culture in Nigeria names by day but not sure. All the best in your search.

Originally Posted by AfricanHeart

Hi all, I'm new here. I've been searching the internet finding out more about African names and the meanings. I read this discussion, it seemed interesting, informative and fun and I want to join in. My reasons are personal. I was wondering if anyone can help. I would like to know some Nigerian names that would be given to a female born on wednesday and what are the supposed characteristics of those born on wednesday. I have looked into the Ghanain name Akua and read an article that the characteristic of wednesday borns is related to 'evil'. I am hoping the Nigerian form is more positive. Please let me know. Thank you!

**Big-K** · Jul 20, 2010 , 06:33 PM

Welcome.

In Hausa, Laraba or Larai is given to a female child born on Wednesday. I'm not sure about other ethnic groups.

Originally Posted by AfricanHeart

Hi all, I'm new here. I've been searching the internet finding out more about African names and the meanings. I read this discussion, it seemed interesting, informative and fun and I want to join in. My reasons are personal. I was wondering if anyone can help. I would like to know some Nigerian names that would be given to a female born on wednesday and what are the supposed characteristics of those born on wednesday. I have looked into the Ghanain name Akua and read an article that the characteristic of wednesday borns is related to 'evil'. I am hoping the Nigerian form is more positive. Please let me know. Thank you!

**shizznic** · Jan 16, 2012 , 03:36 PM

Hello everyone. I am an Afro American who has just made a new friend in Nigeria. She is a very amazing lady and I am glad to make her acquaintance. I've been trying to impress her by defining her names and I've ran into a symbling block with her last name. Her birth names point to royalty, divinity and soundness. Her last name is Tukura and I haven't been able to define it. S.O.S.

**chaos.com** · Jan 16, 2012 , 09:39 PM

Ike chukwu would do, roughtly means the power of God.
if he has witnessed pain and is bringing joy., ayo dele is also a good one.

**emj** · Jan 17, 2012 , 04:01 AM

Sebiotimo anishulowo. Setinobi Boniface.

**ikuchi munta wei** · Jan 20, 2012 , 12:40 AM

Shizznic,
welcome!!

Her birth names point to royalty, divinity and soundness

that points to the surname actually!!!

Tukura

The name is quite common among the Middle belt Christians and is partly religious/encompasses responsibility on the bearer. More on the name when i get enough time!

**ikuchi munta wei** · Jan 20, 2012 , 12:41 AM

Chei!!!

I don dey carry inactive tag???????

edon teh!!!!

**mitch** · Jun 1, 2012 , 02:55 AM

hi. i'm new here. my father's surname is Chedjou. when i look it up on the net i get aurelien chedjou, the footballer from cameroon. but my family says my father is from nigeria. is chedjou not a nigerian name? does anybody know what it means? appreciate it.

**DeepThought** · Jun 1, 2012 , 03:55 PM

Authentic African last names?. Look no further, I'm here to help.....:

1. Lionhunter (with bow and arrow...)
2. Tree climber
3. Cavedweller
4. Treasurylooter
5. Wifebeater
6. Hungryhungry hippo

...yawn.....use your imagination man. You can think of a few more....

**Ajibs** · Jun 8, 2012 , 07:42 PM

Originally Posted by DeepThought

Authentic African last names?. Look no further, I'm here to help.....:

1. Lionhunter (with bow and arrow...)
2. Tree climber
3. Cavedweller
4. Treasurylooter
5. Wifebeater
6. Hungryhungry hippo

...yawn.....use your imagination man. You can think of a few more....

Hunter of rat and rabbit unko... Kokonsari!!!

**UncleTisha** · Apr 18, 2013 , 06:48 AM

^^^^^^^^^^
Here's to all the crase people in this village....

Cheers!

**emj** · Apr 18, 2013 , 04:55 PM

Originally Posted by UncleTisha

^^^^^^^^^^
Here's to all the crase people in this village....

Cheers!

Buti why? Why Uncletisha?
Anyway.

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