Find out how popular the first name Olalekan has been for the last 22 years (from 1996 to 2017) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Olalekan by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Olalekan is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2017, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Olalekan.

The history of the first name Olalekan

The name Olalekan is of Yoruba origin, an ethnic group predominantly found in southwestern Nigeria. It is derived from the combination of two Yoruba words, "Ola" and "Leke," which together translate to "wealth or fortune comes home." The name's roots can be traced back to the 15th century, when the Yoruba people were a prominent cultural and linguistic group in the region.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Olalekan can be found in the oral traditions and folklore of the Yoruba people. It was often given to newborn boys as a symbol of hope and prosperity, reflecting the parents' aspirations for their child's future.

The name Olalekan has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous was Olalekan Idowu, a Nigerian playwright and poet who lived from 1932 to 2008. His works, which explored themes of cultural identity and social commentary, were widely acclaimed and contributed significantly to the development of contemporary Nigerian literature.

Another prominent individual with the name Olalekan was Olalekan Adebanjo, a Nigerian businessman and entrepreneur who founded one of the country's largest conglomerates. Born in 1945, he played a crucial role in the growth of the Nigerian economy during the latter half of the 20th century.

In the realm of sports, Olalekan Okunola, a Nigerian professional footballer who played as a striker, made a name for himself in the 1980s and 1990s. He represented Nigeria at the international level and had a successful career in various European leagues.

The name Olalekan also found its way into the academic world with Olalekan Akinrinade, a renowned Nigerian scholar and professor of linguistics. Born in 1938, he made significant contributions to the study of African languages and their preservation.

Lastly, Olalekan Adekugbe, a Nigerian-born British actor and filmmaker, has gained recognition for his work in both theater and cinema. He has appeared in several acclaimed productions and continues to make an impact in the entertainment industry.

While the name Olalekan has maintained its cultural significance among the Yoruba people, it has also gained popularity beyond its place of origin, transcending geographic boundaries and serving as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.

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

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

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