Igbo names are often small sentences, and many were given because of the circumstances of a birth, a hope, or a thank-you to God. Names beginning with Chi- or Chukwu- refer to God, and names with Nne- or Nna- evoke mother and father.
Chidi
“God exists”: a name of faith.
Ngozi
“Blessing”, given to a child who is a blessing for the family.
Nneka
“Mother is supreme”.
Ifeoma
“A good thing”: a lovely gift.
Obinna
“Father’s heart”: for a child who seems to carry a father’s spirit.
Chukwuemeka
“God has done something great”, often shortened to Emeka.
Ada
Name given to a first daughter.
Okonkwo, Okafọ, Okeke, Okoye
Male names linked to the market day of birth: Nkwọ, Afọ, Eke and Orie.
Surnames and first names are both rich in meaning. Ask an Igbo friend what their name means: it is a lovely way to start a conversation.