Find out how popular the first name Abasi has been for the last 28 years (from 1976 to 2003) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Abasi by gender

Based on the last 28 years of data, Abasi is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2003, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Abasi.

The history of the first name Abasi

The name Abasi has its roots in the Efik and Ibibio languages of southern Nigeria. It is believed to have originated in the 16th century or earlier, as these languages developed among the Efik and Ibibio ethnic groups in the region that is now known as the Cross River State of Nigeria.

Abasi is derived from the Efik and Ibibio word "Obasi", which means "great God" or "supreme deity". It is closely associated with the traditional religious beliefs and practices of these ethnic groups, which have been influenced by elements of Christianity and Islam over time.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Abasi can be found in the writings of European missionaries and explorers who visited the region in the 17th and 18th centuries. These accounts describe the Efik and Ibibio people's reverence for Abasi as the supreme creator and ruler of the universe.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Abasi. One of the earliest recorded examples is Abasi Egbunam (c. 1700-1780), a renowned Efik trader and diplomat who played a crucial role in facilitating trade relations between the Efik people and European traders during the height of the transatlantic slave trade.

Another prominent figure was Abasi Edem (1839-1912), an Efik chief and activist who fought against the exploitation of his people by European colonial powers in the late 19th century. He is remembered for his resistance to British colonial rule and his efforts to preserve the traditions and culture of the Efik people.

In the 20th century, Abasi Ekpo (1902-1987) was a respected Efik educator and linguist who contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of the Efik language and culture. He authored several books and publications on Efik language and folklore.

Another notable individual was Abasi Iseh (1920-1998), an Ibibio artist and sculptor who is celebrated for his intricate wood carvings depicting scenes from Ibibio cultural life and traditional folklore.

More recently, Abasi Ene-Obong (1942-2017) was a Nigerian lawyer and human rights activist who fought against corruption and advocated for democracy and good governance in Nigeria.

While the name Abasi has its origins in the Efik and Ibibio cultures of southern Nigeria, it has gained popularity and usage across various parts of the world, particularly among people of African descent. Its meaning and significance as a name honoring the supreme creator and deity continue to resonate with many individuals and communities.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Abasi was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Abasi, please contact us.

Reference this page

We spend a lot of resources downloading, cleaning, merging, and formatting the data that is shown on the site.

If you found the data or information on this page useful in your research, please use the tool below to properly cite or reference Name Census as the source. We appreciate your support!