Shehu
Shehu is a Muslim boy name meaning “Elder, learned leader, shaykh”.
| Meaning | Elder, learned leader, shaykh |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Hausa form of Arabic Shaykh |
| Arabic spelling | شيخ |
| Pronunciation | SHEH-hoo |
| Arabic root | ش ي خ (sh-y-kh) — to be old, an elder |
| Muslim name? | Islamic / Arabic name |
Meaning and origin of Shehu
Shehu is the Hausa form of the Arabic shaykh, 'elder, master, learned leader'. In northern Nigeria it is inseparable from Shehu Usman dan Fodio, the scholar who founded the Sokoto Caliphate in the early nineteenth century. The name is also the title of the rulers of Borno, and is borne by figures such as former Nigerian president Shehu Shagari.
Is Shehu a Muslim name?
Yes. Shehu is a Muslim name, the Hausa form of Shaykh, honoured in Nigeria through Shehu Usman dan Fodio.
Where is the name Shehu used?
Very common in northern Nigeria and among Hausa and Fulani Muslims.
Gifts with the name Shehu
- Shehu name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Shehu baby gifts (Amazon)
- Islamic baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Shehu
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More boy names like Shehu
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Shehu mean?
Shehu means 'Elder, learned leader, shaykh'. It comes from Hausa form of Arabic Shaykh.
Is Shehu a Muslim name?
Yes. Shehu is a Muslim name, the Hausa form of Shaykh, honoured in Nigeria through Shehu Usman dan Fodio.
How do you write Shehu in Arabic?
Shehu is written شيخ in Arabic script.
How do you pronounce Shehu?
Shehu is pronounced SHEH-hoo.