Why do Nigerians bear English name?

1. Colonial History: Nigeria, like many other African countries, was colonised by the British Empire. During the colonial period, the British imposed many of their customs, including the adoption of English names. While some Nigerians were forced to take English names, others adopted them voluntarily as a way to assimilate into colonial society and take advantage of the opportunities it offered.

2. Modernisation: The adoption of English names continued after Nigeria's independence in 1960. Many Nigerians saw English names as a symbol of modernity and progress. They believed that having an English name would give them a better chance in education, employment, and social mobility.

3. Global Recognition: English is widely spoken and understood around the world. Having an English name can make it easier for Nigerians to communicate with people from other countries, especially in business and international relations.

4. Cultural Diversity: Nigeria is a multilingual and multicultural country with over 500 ethnic groups. English is the official language, and it serves as a common language that allows people from different ethnic backgrounds to communicate with each other. As such, having an English name can help Nigerians to transcend cultural boundaries and unite under a common identity.

5. Influence of Popular Culture: The spread of Western culture, including music, movies, and television, has also contributed to the popularity of English names in Nigeria. Many Nigerians choose English names because they are influenced by their favourite international celebrities or characters.