Have you ever found yourself confused when filling out a form that asks for your first name and last name? If yes, you’re not alone. Many Nigerians struggle with the order and meaning of names—especially when dealing with official documents or international systems.
Growing Up with a Different Understanding
I grew up believing that the usual name order was:
First Name – Middle Name – Last Name
Back then, I thought the “first name” was my surname, the “middle name” was the name everyone called me (the personal name on my birth certificate), and the “last name” was the “other” name I bore.
But things changed.
Over time, I started seeing forms using the order “Last, First, Middle,” especially in alphabetized lists where last names came first. It got even more confusing when newer forms started asking for just “First Name” and “Last Name” without any middle name section.
The Wake-Up Call at the Office
A few weeks ago, I visited a company where I had once worked as an IT student four years ago. It was located in Ikeja, Lagos. I had an appointment with my former boss and was excited to reconnect.
At the reception, I met the company secretary—Sister Yemi—and after exchanging pleasantries, she handed me a visitor’s form. She said politely,
“Please, your first name first and your last name follows.”
Following my old mindset, I wrote my surname as the first name and my given name as the last name.
She smiled and said,
“Gbenga is your name. It should be your first name, and your surname is your last name.”
I didn’t argue—my mind was focused on the meeting ahead. But her comment stuck with me.
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I Had to Google It
When I got home, I couldn’t stop thinking about the “name order” issue. So, I did what we all do—I Googled it.
To my surprise, I found that name ordering varies around the world.
- In Western countries, the “first name” refers to your given name, and the “last name” is your family name (surname).
- In some Asian cultures, the family name actually comes first, followed by the given name.
This explained why different platforms and forms ask for name details in different ways.
So, What’s the Standard in Nigeria?
Let’s break it down clearly:
- In Nigeria, we follow the Western style.
- That means:
- First Name = Your given name (e.g., Gbenga)
- Last Name = Your surname/family name (e.g., Adeyemi)
- Middle Name (if requested) = An additional name given at birth or baptism
So if your full name is Gbenga Michael Adeyemi, here’s how it should appear:
- First Name: Gbenga
- Middle Name: Michael
- Last Name: Adeyemi
Why Does It Matter?
Using your names incorrectly on official documents can lead to:
- Rejected applications
- Delayed verifications
- Identity mix-ups
Always double-check what’s required in the form and follow the correct format.
Final Thoughts
I learned the hard way that our understanding of names needs to evolve with global standards—especially now that we fill out forms for passports, visas, scholarships, and online profiles.
To avoid future mix-ups, just remember:
First name = Your name
Last name = Your surname
Let’s help each other get it right!
