Discover the beauty and diversity of Nigerian names that start with the letter Y.
From the Yoruba tribe’s Yinka, meaning “gift of God,” to the Igbo name Yide, which symbolizes “prosperity,” these names hold deep cultural significance.
Explore the meanings and origins of these enchanting names, and find the perfect one to represent your child’s unique identity.
| Yoruba Names | Igbo Names | Hausa Names |
| Yemi | Yinka | Yusuf |
| Yinka | Yemi | Yakubu |
| Yewande | Yewande | Yau |
| Yewande | Yemi | Yunusa |
Names Starting With Y
Yorùbá Names
Yorùbá names are rich in meaning and significance, reflecting the cultural heritage and values of the Yorùbá people.
They often carry prayers, blessings, or aspirations for the child’s life and embody the hopes and dreams of the parents.
Yinka
Yinka, a melodious name of Yoruba origin, means “one who is worthy of care.” It symbolizes the preciousness and value accorded to a child, reflecting the love and high hopes parents have for their offspring.
Yinka’s name carries the essence of nurturing and cherishing a child’s growth and well-being.
Yusuf
Yusuf, a majestic name of Arabic origin, holds significant meaning in Nigerian culture. This name, bestowed upon males, symbolizes strength, power, and unwavering faith.
Yusuf is a bearer of hope, embodying resilience and the ability to overcome life’s challenges with unwavering determination.
Yejide
Yejide is a beautiful Nigerian name that means “mother came back”.
It is often given to a child born after the loss of a previous child.
The name Yejide is a symbol of hope and renewal.
Yemi
Yemi, a melodious Yoruba name meaning “given by my mother,” holds a special place in Nigerian culture. It symbolizes the profound bond between a mother and her child and is often bestowed upon those believed to bring joy and fortune to their families.
Yetunde
Yetunde, a melodious Yoruba name meaning “mother has come back,” symbolizes the return of joy and blessings. Its rich history and beautiful sound make it a popular choice for parents seeking a meaningful name for their child.
Yomi
Yomi, a name of Yoruba origin, is commonly given to both males and females in Nigeria.
It means “born on a day of celebration” or “born during a festival.” Yomi is associated with joy, happiness, and festivity.
Yewande
Yewande, a Yoruba name meaning “mother comes home,” is a beautiful and meaningful choice for a child.
Its rich cultural heritage and positive connotations make it a popular name in Nigeria and beyond.
Yomi
Yomi, a name of Yoruba origin, is commonly given to male children in Nigeria.
It carries the beautiful meaning of “born at night” or “child of the night.” This name is often chosen by parents who value the significance of their child’s birth and the unique qualities associated with the night.
Yaya
Yaya is a popular Nigerian name often given to boys.
It means “father” or “dad” in Yoruba, one of Nigeria’s major languages.
The name conveys respect, honor, and admiration for the father figure.
Igbo Names
Yide
Yide is a beautiful Nigerian name of Igbo origin, commonly given to male children.
Its meaning, “to be born,” reflects the joy and hope associated with the arrival of a new life.
The name Yide is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and the Igbo people.
Yemi
Yemi, a Yoruba name popular in Nigeria, signifies “given to care for.” It reflects the bearer’s perceived role as a caregiver or protector.
Yemi is often seen as a symbol of responsibility and kindness.
Yemisi
Yemisi, a beautiful Yoruba name meaning “mother has come,” is often given to a child born after a period of waiting or difficulty.
It is a symbol of joy and celebration, reflecting the parents’ gratitude for the arrival of their precious child.
Yewande
Yewande is a beautiful Yoruba female name meaning “Mother Come Home”. It is a name associated with wealth, prosperity, and abundance.
Yewande is a popular choice for parents who desire wealth and success for their daughters.
Yemi
Yemi is a beautiful and meaningful Nigerian unisex name of Yoruba origin.
It is often given to children born during the rainy season and symbolizes blessing and fruitfulness.
The name Yemi is also associated with prosperity and abundance.
Yeboah
Yeboah is a common Igbo name primarily given to males.
It means “born on Thursday”.
In the Igbo calendar, Thursday is considered a powerful and auspicious day, and children born on this day are believed to possess special qualities and abilities.
Yemi
Yemi, a melodious Yoruba name, symbolizes vitality and perseverance. It is often bestowed upon children born during difficult times, signifying their resilience and strength.
The name carries the hope that the child will overcome life’s challenges and emerge triumphantly.
Yima
Yima, a unique Igbo name meaning “born on a good day,” is often given to children born during favorable circumstances or on special occasions. It symbolizes joy, prosperity, and blessings associated with the child’s arrival.
Yewa
Yewa, a name commonly found among the Yoruba people of Nigeria, is often given to children born on a Wednesday.
It symbolizes prosperity and blessings.
Hausa Names
Yusuf
Yusuf is a popular Hausa name given to boys.
It is the Hausa form of the Arabic name Yusuf, which means “God will increase.” The name is often given to children who are expected to be prosperous and successful.
Yakubu
Yakubu is a common Hausa name given to male children.
It is derived from the Arabic name Ya’qub, which means “supplanter” or “deceiver.” The name is often associated with strength, determination, and resourcefulness.
Yau
Yau is a common Hausa name typically given to boys.
It is the shortened form of the name Yahaya, which means “John” in English.
The name Yau is often used as a term of endearment and is considered to be a strong and masculine name.
Yakubu
Yakubu is a popular Hausa name given to male children.
It means “born on Monday” and is often used to honor children born on that day of the week.
The name is also associated with strength, determination, and success.
Yaya
Yaya is a common Hausa name typically given to males.
It signifies one born after twins, symbolizing joy and celebration within the family.
The name Yaya is often associated with characteristics of happiness, resilience, and a positive outlook on life.
Yusuf
Yusuf is a popular Hausa name given to male children. It is the Nigerian version of the Arabic name Yusuf, meaning “God will increase” or “God will add”.
The name is often associated with the prophet Yusuf, who is revered in the Islamic tradition for his wisdom and piety.
Yahuza
Yahuza, a Hausa name originating from Nigeria, is commonly given to male children.
It signifies strength, determination, and the ability to overcome challenges.
Parents bestow this name upon their sons with the hope that they will grow up to be steadfast and resilient individuals.
Yahaya
Yahaya, a Hausa name popular in Nigeria, is often given to boys. It means “born on Thursday” and is associated with attributes like intelligence, determination, and resilience.
Yusuf
Yusuf is a common Hausa name given to boys. It is the Hausa form of the Arabic name Yusuf, which means “Joseph” and is derived from the Hebrew name Yosef.
The name Yusuf is popular among Hausa people in Nigeria and other West African countries.
Other Nigerian Names
Yekini
Yekini, a Yoruba name, symbolizes perseverance and strength. It is often given to individuals born during difficult times or those who have demonstrated remarkable resilience.
The name is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can emerge victorious.
Yohanna
Yohanna, a Nigerian name of Hebrew origin, signifies “Jehovah is gracious.” It is commonly used among Christian families, symbolizing gratitude and reverence for God’s divine favor.
The name holds spiritual significance, expressing trust in God’s benevolence.
Yetunde
Yetunde, a melodious name of Yoruba origin, symbolizes care and nurturing.
It is often given to girls born during challenging times, expressing the hope that they will bring joy and comfort to their families.
Yemi
Yemi, a melodious name of Yoruba origin, exudes warmth and charm. It signifies someone loved and cherished, often given to children who bring joy and happiness to their families.
Final Verdict
Nigerian names beginning with the letter “Y” reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnicities. From the Yoruba’s Yinka and Yewande to the Igbo’s Yide and Yemisi, these names hold significant meanings and honor various cultural traditions.
Whether it’s the Hausa’s Yusuf or the Edo’s Yekini, each name carries a unique story and reflects the beauty and diversity of Nigerian culture.
These names, with their distinct origins and meanings, contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian identity.
