Bola
Short form of many Yoruba names containing ọlá meaning “wealth, honor, prestige, or prosperity,” often expressing dignity, success, and good fortune.
Bola developed as an affectionate and everyday shortening of longer Yoruba sentence-names such as Abimbola, Adebola, and Omobola. In Yoruba naming tradition, ọlá represents status, blessing, and material and spiritual well-being, making it one of the most valued elements in personal names.
Over time Bola began to stand independently as a given name while still retaining its connection to those fuller forms. It is widely used for both boys and girls in Nigeria and among the Yoruba diaspora, appreciated for its simplicity, warmth, and positive meaning.
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu20th–21st century • Politics
Nigerian politician serving as President of Nigeria and previously Governor of Lagos State.
- Bola Ige20th–21st century • Law and public service
Nigerian lawyer and statesman who served as Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation.
- Bola Johnson20th century • Business
Nigerian entrepreneur and founder of one of the earliest indigenous Nigerian computer companies.
Forms
Common spellings and forms used in different languages.
Related names
Similar names connected by origin, usage, gender, or category.
More names starting with B
FAQ
Quick answers about this name.
Is Bola a boy or girl name?
Bola is typically a unisex name.
What does Bola mean?
Short form of many Yoruba names containing ọlá meaning “wealth, honor, prestige, or prosperity,” often expressing dignity, success, and good fortune.
Where does Bola come from?
Bola is commonly associated with Yoruba.
What are the forms of Bola?
Common forms and spellings include: Abimbola, Adebola, Omobola.
Where is Bola used?
Bola is used in naming traditions such as Yoruba.
Part of Names Archive — a reference-style collection of name meanings and origins.