Find out how popular the first name Obehi has been for the last 1 years (from 2009 to 2009) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Obehi by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Obehi is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2009, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Obehi.

The history of the first name Obehi

The name Obehi originates from the Edo language spoken by the Edo people of southern Nigeria. It is believed to have emerged during the medieval period, particularly around the 15th century, when the powerful Benin Empire thrived in the region.

Obehi is a combination of two Edo words, "obe" meaning "child" and "hi" meaning "born." The name can be interpreted as "born a child" or "newborn child." It is a name that celebrates the joy and blessing of childbirth, reflecting the cultural significance placed on fertility and childbearing among the Edo people.

In ancient Benin folklore and oral traditions, the name Obehi is often associated with tales of prosperity, abundance, and the continuation of lineages. It was a popular name given to children, especially girls, as a symbol of hope and continuity for the family and community.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Obehi can be found in the historical accounts of the Benin Empire, where it is mentioned as the name of a princess born to the Oba (ruler) Ewuare the Great, who reigned from 1440 to 1473. This princess, Obehi, was said to have played a significant role in the diplomatic relations between the Benin Empire and neighboring kingdoms.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Obehi:

1. Obehi Akenzua (1918-1978), a Nigerian princess and activist who played a pivotal role in advocating for women's rights and education in Benin City.
2. Obehi Ezekwesili (born 1963), a Nigerian economic policy expert, former Vice President of the World Bank, and co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement.
3. Obehi Okojie (born 1979), a Nigerian actress and model known for her roles in Nollywood films.
4. Obehi Janice (born 1985), a British singer and songwriter of Nigerian descent, known for her blend of soul and Afrobeats music.
5. Obehi Lilian Akhigbe (born 1989), a Nigerian track and field athlete who specializes in the 400 meters hurdles and has represented Nigeria in international competitions.

The name Obehi has maintained its cultural significance and popularity among the Edo people and Nigerians of Edo descent. It continues to be a name that symbolizes the essence of life, hope, and the importance of childbirth in the cultural fabric of the Edo society.

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

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

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