ALAKIJA
Alakija
Alakija is a British surname with Nigerian origins, predominantly found in the United Kingdom and West Africa. The name is believed to derive from the Yoruba ethnic group in Nigeria.
Origin and Meaning
The surname Alakija is believed to have originated from the Yoruba word "Alakisa" meaning "one who has wealth and social standing." This suggests that the name may have once been associated with individuals of high status or prosperity.
Notable Individuals
One of the most prominent bearers of the Alakija name is Folorunso Alakija, a Nigerian businesswoman and philanthropist. She is known for her success in the fashion and oil industries and is recognised as one of the wealthiest women in Africa.
Distribution and Presence
The Alakija surname is most commonly found within communities of Nigerian and West African descent, particularly in regions with significant Yoruba populations. However, with migration and globalisation, individuals with the surname have also settled in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world.
Legacy
The Alakija name carries with it a rich cultural heritage from Nigeria and represents a link to the Yoruba tradition of wealth and influence. Those who bear the Alakija surname today often take pride in their heritage and contributions to various fields of endeavour.
In contemporary society, the Alakija surname serves as a reminder of the diverse cultural tapestry of British society and the connections that exist between different parts of the world.
There are approximately 132 people named Alakija in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Alakija.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Ayodele
- Bamidele
- Folarin
- Gavin
- Michael
- Mobolaji
- Olu
- Olufemi
- Paul
- Peter
Female
- Anthonia
- Antonia
- Aramide
- Hanifa
- Janet
- Madeleine
- Rachel
- Sarah
- Susan
- Temitope