Kanu

Kanu is a surname of Igbo origin in Nigeria and is used by several families across West Africa and in the Nigerian diaspora. It is also found as a given name in some communities. The name is most widely recognized internationally through public figures bearing it, particularly in sports.

Nwankwo Kanu (born 1976) is a Nigerian former professional footballer who played for clubs including Ajax, Arsenal, Inter Milan, and Portsmouth, and was part of Nigeria's gold-medal-winning team at the 1996 Olympic Games. The name has since appeared among other athletes, entertainers, and professionals of Nigerian descent, reflecting migration and intercultural exchange.