Abiola is a unique and captivating female name of Yoruba origin from Nigeria in West Africa. It is derived from the Yoruba words "abi" meaning "there is" and "ola" which signifies wealth, honor or abundance. Therefore, Abiola means "There is wealth".
The name Abiola has a rich history and cultural significance in Nigeria. It was popularized by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, one of Nigeria's prominent politicians during the colonial era. He named his daughter Abiola, who later became a renowned philanthropist and businesswoman.
Abiola is also associated with courage and resilience. One notable figure bearing this name is Kudirat Abiola, the wife of Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, Nigeria's presumed winner of the 1993 presidential election. Despite her husband's detention and eventual death, Kudirat stood firmly against the military dictatorship, advocating for democracy until her own untimely death.
Today, Abiola remains a powerful name that carries with it the echoes of strength, prosperity, and defiance in the face of adversity. It serves as an inspiration to many Nigerians and those who appreciate unique names with deep cultural roots.
"The name Abiola experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years, with peaks occurring in 1977 (9 births), 1988 (10 births), and most recently in 2018 (13 births). However, it seems to have seen a decline in usage since the mid-2000s, with fewer than 6 births per year from 2005 onwards, except for the peak in 2014 (10 births) and 2018. Overall, there were 183 babies named Abiola between 1977 and 2023."