Somtochukwu first name popularity, history and meaning

Find out how popular the first name Somtochukwu has been for the last 26 years (from 1998 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Meaning of Somtochukwu

Name of Nigerian origin expressing gratitude to God.

Popularity of Somtochukwu by gender

Based on the last 26 years of data, Somtochukwu is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 83% of people named Somtochukwu being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Somtochukwu.

Year Male Count Female Count
2023 5 0
2021 7 0
2020 7 0
2019 5 0
2018 9 0
2017 11 0
2016 5 6
2015 9 0
2014 9 5
2013 7 5
2012 7 0
2011 10 5
2010 6 0
2009 14 0
2008 6 0
2004 6 0
2003 0 5
1998 5 0

The history of the first name Somtochukwu

The given name Somtochukwu has its origins in the Igbo language of Nigeria. The name is a combination of two separate Igbo words, "somto" meaning "to answer" and "chukwu" which refers to the supreme God or creator. When combined, the name carries the meaning "answer from God" or "the one who answers is God."

This name likely emerged during the spread of Christianity in the region, as it reflects a blend of traditional Igbo beliefs and the Christian concept of God. The name may have been used to signify a child born after fervent prayers or seen as an answer to those prayers.

Some of the earliest recorded instances of the name Somtochukwu can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Christian missionaries established settlements and schools in the region, leading to the adoption of Christian names among the local population.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name Somtochukwu was a Nigerian writer and academic, Somtochukwu Alikor, born in 1932. He was a prominent figure in the literary scene of Nigeria and authored several works exploring the intersection of traditional Igbo culture and modern society.

Another notable figure with the name Somtochukwu was Somtochukwu Obiora, a Nigerian businessman and philanthropist who lived from 1945 to 2018. He founded several successful companies and was widely recognized for his charitable initiatives, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.

In the realm of sports, Somtochukwu Ezuruike, born in 1972, was a Nigerian sprinter who represented his country at multiple Olympic Games and won several medals at international competitions.

Somtochukwu Onyema, born in 1965, is a Nigerian lawyer and entrepreneur who founded and currently serves as the CEO of Air Peace, one of the largest airlines in West Africa.

Lastly, Somtochukwu Udeze, born in 1984, is a former Nigerian professional footballer who played as a defender for several clubs in Europe, including Lazio and West Bromwich Albion, and represented the Nigerian national team.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Somtochukwu throughout history, highlighting its deep roots in the Igbo culture and its continued use as a given name in Nigeria and among the Nigerian diaspora.

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

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

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"Somtochukwu first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on September 12, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/somtochukwu-meaning-and-history/.

"Somtochukwu first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/somtochukwu-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 12 September, 2025

Somtochukwu first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/somtochukwu-meaning-and-history/.

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