Kudirat

Kudirat is a female given name of Yoruba origin, used primarily among Yoruba-speaking communities in Nigeria and in the Nigerian diaspora. In Nigerian culture the name is associated with women and has been popularized through public figures and stories tied to the nation’s history.

A notable bearer of the name is Kudirat Abiola (1952–1994), a Nigerian pro-democracy activist and wife of Moshood Kashinlat Abiola. She played a prominent role in organizing protests after the annulment of the 1993 presidential election. Kudirat Abiola was killed by a car bombing in Lagos on June 4, 1994, an act widely understood as politically motivated. Her death became a galvanizing symbol in Nigeria’s struggle for democratic rule and is remembered in discussions of the country’s modern history.

Legacy and cultural resonance: The name Kudirat has been commemorated in public spaces and institutions in Nigeria. For example, Kudirat Abiola Way in Lagos is named in her honor, reflecting her role as a figure associated with resilience and political advocacy. The name continues to be used within Yoruba communities and among families who honor its cultural associations.

Notes on meaning: Like many Yoruba names, Kudirat is part of a tradition in which given names convey attributes, circumstances, or wishes surrounding birth. Specific meanings attributed to Kudirat can vary by speaker or region, and interpretations are often best understood within cultural and linguistic contexts.