Find out how popular the first name Akinola has been for the last 26 years (from 1992 to 2017) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Akinola by gender

Based on the last 26 years of data, Akinola is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2017, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Akinola.

The history of the first name Akinola

The name Akinola originates from the Yoruba culture of West Africa, primarily in Nigeria. It is a compound name, derived from the Yoruba words "Akin" meaning "warrior" or "brave one," and "Ola" meaning "wealth" or "honor." The name can be interpreted to mean "a brave and honorable warrior" or "a brave one honored with wealth."

The Yoruba people have a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries, and their naming traditions have been influenced by various factors, including religious beliefs, historical events, and personal aspirations. Akinola is a name that reflects the Yoruba's reverence for bravery, strength, and success.

While the exact origin of the name Akinola is difficult to pinpoint, it is believed to have been in use among the Yoruba people for several centuries. The earliest recorded instances of the name can be traced back to the 18th and 19th centuries, when it was commonly given to male children born into families of warriors or those who held positions of honor and respect within their communities.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Akinola. One of the earliest recorded examples is Akinola Aguda (1809-1891), a prominent Yoruba merchant and philanthropist who played a significant role in the development of Lagos, Nigeria, during the 19th century. Another notable figure is Akinola Maja (1915-2008), a Nigerian educator and historian who contributed significantly to the preservation of Yoruba culture and history.

In the realm of religion, Akinola has been a prominent name among Christian leaders in Nigeria. For instance, Akinola Akindele (1865-1943) was a pioneering Anglican missionary and translator who played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity in the Yoruba region. Additionally, Akinola Benjamin (1933-2011) served as the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Nigeria from 1988 to 2002, during which time he advocated for human rights and social justice.

Another notable individual bearing the name Akinola is Akinola Davies (1901-1976), a Nigerian lawyer and judge who served as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria from 1964 to 1972. His contributions to the legal system and jurisprudence in Nigeria were significant.

The name Akinola has also gained recognition in the arts and entertainment industry. Akinola Akintola (1923-2007) was a renowned Nigerian musician and composer who played a pivotal role in the development of highlife music, a popular genre that blended traditional Yoruba music with Western influences.

These examples illustrate the rich cultural significance and historical importance of the name Akinola within the Yoruba community and beyond. While its usage may have evolved over time, the name continues to carry the essence of bravery, honor, and wealth, reflecting the values and aspirations of the Yoruba people.

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 Akinola was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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