How do Nigerian names for boys reflect the culture and traditions of Nigeria?

In Yoruba (an ethnic group of Nigeria) culture, personal names often reflect the circumstances under which a child was born. For example, Taiwo (‘pre-tasted the world,’ given to the first of a set of twins), Kehinde (‘the one who lagged behind,’ given to the second of a set of twins) or Idowu (given to the child born after a set of twins). Similarly, in Hausa culture, the names are heavily influenced by Islam, and many personal names are often followed by one of the attributes of Allah. For example, AbdulRahman and Abdulsalam (2).

Can I combine Nigerian baby boy names with Western names?

Yes. you may combine Nigerian and Western names to bring uniqueness to the overall naming process. However, it is important to remember to be conscious and respectful of the meaning and culture of the Nigerian name to avoid disrespecting it unintentionally.

What Nigerian name means God's gift?

Nkechi (Gift of God), Oghenekevwe (God has provided for me), and Olubunmi (gift from God) are examples of names that are synonymous with the meaning ‘God’s gift).

What is the Nigerian name for a miracle?

According to Nigerian culture, Iyanu, Odachi, Onnah, Iyanuoluwa, and Oluebube are names that carry the meaning of ‘miracle.’

Home • Baby Names

17 Nigerian Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With I

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

Read full bio of Shikha Thakur

Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Ikechukwu	Boy	The power of God
Ifeanyichukwu	Boy	God is the most powerful; We can do anything with God
Idogbe	Boy	The second child born after twins
Ifechi	Boy	The light of God
Ilozumba	Boy	Our distant home is forgotten
Inegbedion	Boy	My family supports me
Isamotu-Olalekan	Boy	Without God I'm destitute
Ifechukwude	Boy	What God has written
Ifemyolunna	Boy	What I asked of the Lord
Igwebuike	Boy	Strength in numbers

Iheanacho	Boy	Precious; What everyone seeks
Ikemba	Boy	Strength of the nation
Isinachi	Boy	One who is sent from God
Igberaharha	Boy	The poor takes the blame
Ighomuedafe	Boy	Money intoxicates the wealthy
Ighovavwerhe	Boy	There is joy in riches
Irikefe	Boy	First to become wealthy

Infographic: Prominent Nigerian Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With I

When deciding what to name your child, consider a baby name that represents your and your partner’s values and the traits you both admire. Such a name would take your child far and remind them of your love and blessings. To help nudge you in the right direction, we have compiled a few Nigerian Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With I in our infographic below. Browse through it to find the perfect one.

Nigerian Boy Names with Meanings, Starting With I(infographic)

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.