Ajasin

Ajasin is a surname of Nigerian origin, primarily associated with the Yoruba ethnic group. It is most famously linked to Michael Adekunle Ajasin, a prominent Nigerian politician who served as the governor of Ondo State in the Second Republic (1979-1983). Ajasin was a key figure in the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and was known for his commitment to free education and his stance against corruption.

The surname itself likely has a deeper etymological root within the Yoruba language, though specific meanings can vary and are often passed down through oral tradition rather than definitive written records. Surnames in Yoruba culture often derive from ancestral names, professions, or significant events. The "Ajasin" family lineage is considered to be of some historical significance within their originating communities in Ondo State.

Beyond the political figure, individuals bearing the Ajasin surname are found across various professions and walks of life within Nigeria and in the Nigerian diaspora. Like many Nigerian surnames, it signifies a connection to a particular heritage and a shared ancestry. The legacy of Michael Adekunle Ajasin continues to be a point of reference for the surname, particularly in discussions of Nigerian political history and education reform.