Last Name Odigie

The last name Odigie is of Nigerian origin, specifically from the Edo people of southern Nigeria. It is a common surname in Nigeria and is typically found among the Edo people, who belong to the Edo State. The name Odigie likely has a specific meaning or significance in the Edo language, but this would require further research to determine.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Odigie

The meaning and origin of the last name Odigie

The surname Odigie is of Nigerian origin, specifically from the Edo tribe in southern Nigeria. It is derived from the Edo word "Odi" meaning "warrior" or "soldier," indicating that the original bearers of this surname may have been fierce warriors or skilled fighters. The suffix "gie" is a common suffix in Edo names, often referring to a place or clan. Therefore, Odigie may also denote a warrior from a particular village or clan within the Edo tribe. The surname Odigie carries a sense of strength, bravery, and honor, reflecting the qualities valued by the Edo people in their ancestral past. Today, individuals with the surname Odigie can be found not only in Nigeria but also in various parts of the world due to migration and globalization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Odigie

The last name Odigie is primarily found in Nigeria, particularly among the Edo people of the southern region. It is a common surname in the Edo State, as well as in neighboring states such as Delta and Ondo. The name Odigie derives from the Igbo language, meaning "well-respected" or "one who is highly regarded." Due to historical migrations and trade routes, some individuals with the last name Odigie can also be found in other parts of Africa and in the diaspora, particularly in countries with large Nigerian communities such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Odigie is predominantly concentrated in Nigeria, reflecting the heritage and cultural identity of the Edo people.

Variants and spellings of the last name Odigie

The last name Odigie can be spelled and seen in various variations including Odijie, Odegy, Odige, Odeje, Odage, and Odygie. These variations may be a result of different pronunciations or transliterations of the name from its original language or dialect. The name Odigie is a common surname in Nigeria, particularly among the Edo people of the southern region. It is believed to mean "the strong one" or "the one who is powerful" in the Edo language. The name is often passed down through generations within families and is a source of pride and identity for those who carry it. Despite the different spellings and variations, the name Odigie remains a prominent and recognizable surname within the Nigerian community.

Famous people with the last name Odigie

One famous person with the last name Odigie is Nigerian artist and sculptor, Ben Osawe Odigie. He is renowned for his intricate and detailed sculptures that depict the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria. His works have been displayed in numerous exhibitions and galleries both locally and internationally, bringing recognition to his talent and creativity. Another famous individual with the last name Odigie is former Nigerian footballer, Friday Eluro Odigie. He had a successful career playing as a midfielder for several clubs in Nigeria and also represented the national team. Odigie was known for his skillful playmaking abilities and was a fan favorite during his time on the field. Both Ben Osawe Odigie and Friday Eluro Odigie have made significant contributions to their respective fields, showcasing the talent and excellence of individuals with the last name Odigie.

Genealogical research on the last name Odigie

The last name Odigie is of Nigerian origin and is believed to be derived from the Edo tribe in southern Nigeria. The name is closely associated with the ancient Benin Kingdom and is believed to have been passed down through generations. Genealogical research on the Odigie last name reveals a rich history of rulers and nobility within the Edo tribe, with some sources tracing the lineage back to the royal family of the Benin Kingdom. The name Odigie is considered a noble name within the Edo tribe and is often associated with individuals of high social status and leadership roles. The surname has likely been passed down from generation to generation, with descendants carrying on the legacy of their ancestors and upholding the traditions and customs of their tribe.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "odigie"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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