In Nigeria, names have cultural and linguistic significance. Starting with the letter “S,” there’s a diverse collection of names that reflect the nation’s rich history and diverse ethnicities.
Discover the beautiful and meaningful Nigerian names that begin with “S,” including Soyinka, Sani, Sadiq, Sanusi, Segun, Shola, Shade, Samson, Salau, and Sikiru.
Delve into the origins and unique characteristics of these names, which hold special significance for families and communities across Nigeria.
| Name | Meaning |
| Sade | One who brings joy |
| Salewa | One who is born to be wealthy |
| Sampson | Strong man |
| Sarah | Princess |
| Segun | Victorious |
| Shade | One who is born at night |
| Shamsideen | Sun of the faith |
| Shakiru | One who is grateful |
| Sikiru | One who is thankful |
| Sola | One who brings comfort |
More nigerian names that start with s
Safara: This name means “journey” or “traveler” in Yoruba.
Salam: This name is derived from the Arabic word “salam” which means “peace”. It conveys wishes of peace, well-being, and safety.
Salisu: This name means “one who is safe and secure” or “one who is protected” in Hausa.
Sanmi: This name means “something good awaits” or “it will come to pass” in Yoruba. It conveys hope and anticipation for a positive future.
Safiya: This name is derived from the Arabic word “safi” meaning “pure” or “clear”. It signifies purity, innocence, and nobility.
Sanusi: This name is derived from the Arabic word “sana” which means “praise” or “commendation”. It denotes someone who is deserving of appreciation and admiration.
Sara: This name means “princess” in Hausa. It symbolizes royalty, elegance, and grace.
Saratu: This name is the feminine form of Sara and also means “princess” in Hausa.
Suleiman: This name is derived from the Arabic word “suliman” which means “man of peace” or “peaceful”. It signifies calmness, tranquility, and harmony.
Suliyat: This name is the feminine form of Suleiman and also means “woman of peace” or “peaceful” in Yoruba.
Serah: This name means “dawn” or “early light” in Hebrew. It connotes the beginning of something new, freshness, and renewal.
Segun: This name means “one who fights for victory” or “one who is victorious” in Yoruba. It symbolizes strength, courage, and triumph.
Segunla: This name is a compound name that means “one who fights for the house or family” in Yoruba. It signifies protectiveness, loyalty, and devotion to one’s loved ones.
Shade: This name means “a shade tree” or “a place of shelter” in Yoruba. It connotes protection, comfort, and resilience.
Sherifat: This name is derived from the Arabic word “sharif” which means “noble” or “honorable”. It signifies nobility, high character, and integrity.
Sherif: This name is the masculine form of Sherifat and also means “noble” or “honorable” in Arabic.
Sidikat: This name is derived from the Arabic word “siddiq” which means “truthful” or “righteous”. It symbolizes honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness.
Sikiru: This name is derived from the Arabic word “shikr” which means “gratitude” or “thankfulness”. It signifies appreciation, humility, and contentment.
Simisola: This name means “she who brings joy” or “one who is a source of joy” in Yoruba. It symbolizes happiness, cheerfulness, and positivity.
Sadiq: This name is derived from the Arabic word “sadiq” which means “truthful” or “righteous”. It signifies honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness.
Names Starting with “S”
Soyinka
Soyinka, a prominent Nigerian playwright, poet, and novelist, stands out for his intellectual depth and unwavering commitment to social justice.
His works, infused with African mythology and history, explore themes of identity, freedom, and the human condition.
Soyinka’s literary prowess earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, making him the first African to receive this prestigious honor.
Sani
Sani is a common Nigerian name given to both male and female children.
It means “born on a Friday”.
It is particularly popular among the Hausa people of northern Nigeria, but is also used in other parts of the country.
Sadiq
Sadiq is a popular Nigerian name for boys.
It is derived from the Arabic word “siddiq,” which means “truthful” or “righteous.” The name is often given to children who are expected to grow up to be honest and just individuals.
Sanusi
Sanusi is a majestic name of Nigerian origin, often bestowed upon boys. It exudes a sense of royalty and authority, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and leadership qualities.
The name carries a rich historical significance, associated with influential figures and respected individuals.
Segun
Segun, a common Nigerian name meaning “born to be victorious,” is often given to children born after a difficult birth or to those who are expected to achieve great things in life. It is a name that carries with it a sense of hope and optimism for the future.
Shola
Shola, meaning “honored,” is a popular Yoruba name given to both boys and girls.
It symbolizes respect, admiration, and high regard.
The name reflects the hope parents have for their child to be esteemed and respected in society.
Shade
Shade is a common Nigerian name with both male and female variations.
It is often used as a short form of various longer names, such as Oluwashade or Omotunde.
The name means “under the shade of a tree” and symbolizes protection and comfort.
Samson
Samson, a biblical figure known for his superhuman strength, is a popular Nigerian name.
The name symbolizes strength, courage, and leadership qualities.
It is often given to male children with the hope that they will grow up to be strong and valiant men.
Salau
Salau is a Yoruba given name commonly used by males in Nigeria.
It is a variant of the more common name Salawu and means “one who is born during the rainy season.” The name is often given to children born during the rainy season, which typically lasts from April to October in Nigeria.
Sikiru
Sikiru is a melodious Yoruba name, predominantly given to male children. It means “to be thankful to God.” Sikiru is a reminder to always be grateful for the blessings in life.
It is a beautiful name that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
Sule
Sule is a common Nigerian name, particularly among the Yoruba ethnic group. It is often given to male children and means “born during the rainy season.” The name is associated with blessings and abundance, as the rainy season is crucial for agricultural success in Nigeria.
Sunday
Sunday is a common Nigerian name, often given to children born on the first day of the week. It is also associated with the Christian Sabbath, a day of rest and worship.
Sunday is a popular name for both boys and girls and is often used in combination with other names, such as Sunday Blessing or Sunday Joy.
Stella
Stella is a melodious Nigerian name given to girls.
It exudes elegance and charm, often associated with brilliance and success.
Stella shines in various Nigerian languages and cultures, capturing the essence of beauty, grace, and intelligence.
Samuel
Samuel, a name of Hebrew origin, is commonly found in Nigerian culture.
It holds a significant meaning, translating to “God has heard” or “name of God.” Samuel is often associated with strength, guidance, and divine favor.
The name carries a sense of reverence and faith, reflecting the belief in God’s presence and protection.
Success
Success, a Nigerian name meaning “prosperity” or “victory,” embodies aspirations for a prosperous and triumphant life.
It reflects the hope that the bearer will achieve great accomplishments and attain remarkable triumphs, symbolizing a destined path toward success and fulfillment.
Sameera
Sameera is a beautiful Nigerian name derived from the Arabic word “samira,” meaning “night companion” or “entertaining companion.” This name symbolizes a person who brings joy and pleasant company to those around them, making them a delight to be with.
Sarah
Sarah, a name of Hebrew origin, signifies “princess” or “noblewoman.” Its Nigerian variation, “Saratu,” carries a similar meaning, embodying elegance, grace, and leadership qualities. This beautiful name is often bestowed upon girls, hoping they will embody these regal attributes.
Sola
Sola is a vibrant Nigerian name that exudes warmth and cheerfulness. Often used for both boys and girls, it signifies a friendly and amiable personality.
The name carries the essence of a person who brings joy and light to those around them.
Segun
Segun, meaning “born to be victorious”, is a common Nigerian name given to male children.
It signifies strength, triumph, and success.
Segun is a name that carries pride and aspiration for a bright future.
Seun
Seun, a name of Yoruba origin, holds a special significance in Nigerian culture. It means “one who is born to receive blessings,” reflecting the cherished belief in divine favor and prosperity.
This name carries the hope that the bearer will be blessed with abundance and success throughout their life’s journey.
Sophia
Sophia, a name of Greek origin, holds the essence of wisdom and knowledge. Often associated with intelligence and philosophical pursuits, it exudes an aura of intellectual curiosity and enlightenment.
Serah
Serah, a name of Nigerian origin, holds a beautiful meaning. It signifies a person who is “like a jewel” or “a precious treasure.” This name exudes elegance and charm, reflecting the value and worth of the individual it adorns.
Final Verdict
Nigerian names beginning with “S” are diverse and rich in cultural significance.
From the renowned playwright Wole Soyinka to the esteemed Sani Abacha, these names are deeply symbolic and carry stories of identity, heritage, and tradition.
Whether it’s the strength and resilience of Sadiq, the wisdom and guidance of Sanusi, or the joy and celebration of Shola, each name reflects the unique tapestry of Nigerian culture and captivates the hearts of its people.
