Nigeria, with its rich cultural diversity and over 250 ethnic groups, boasts a vast array of surnames, each with its own unique meaning and history. Here’s a sample of some common Nigerian last names and their meanings:

1. Adebayo (Yoruba): “The crown/royal title meets joy”
2. Okafor (Igbo): “One who killed in war”
3. Musa (Hausa): Arabic name meaning “Moses”
4. Ekwueme (Igbo): “One who does as he says”
5. Oluwaseun (Yoruba): “Thank God”
6. Nnamani (Igbo): “Father’s land”
7. Abubakar (Hausa): Arabic name meaning “Father of the young camel”
8. Okonkwo (Igbo): “Male child born on Nkwo market day”
9. Adeleke (Yoruba): “The crown/royal title has increased”
10. Chukwu (Igbo): “God”

These names often reflect cultural values, historical events, or religious beliefs. Many Nigerian surnames are patronymic, referring to an ancestor’s name or deed. Others may indicate the family’s profession, place of origin, or a significant characteristic.