An uncommon African pick — distinctive and rare.
Emeka is a boy's and girl's baby name of Igbo origin from Nigeria, a short form of the Igbo name Chukwuemeka — meaning 'God has done great things' or 'Chukwu (God) has accomplished much.' It is a name of profound gratitude and faith.
Emeka is widely used among Igbo-speaking Nigerians and the global African diaspora. Notable bearers include Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General. The name carries a joyful, grateful energy that celebrates divine blessing.
Emeka was #5075 twenty years ago and has since drifted to #8494, but its charm endures.
| Decade | Births | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 2020s | 43 | ▼ |
| 2010s | 83 | ▼ |
| 2000s | 113 | ▲ |
| 1990s | 108 | ▲ |
| 1980s | 88 | ▲ |
| 1970s | 37 | — |
| Year | Births | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 9 | #8494 |
| 2023 | 13 | #6633 |
| 2022 | 8 | #9224 |
| 2021 | 5 | #12690 |
| 2020 | 8 | #8962 |
| 2018 | 8 | #9067 |
| 2017 | 10 | #7745 |
| 2016 | 10 | #7762 |
| 2015 | 11 | #7210 |
| 2014 | 5 | #12625 |
| 2013 | 13 | #6354 |
| 2012 | 9 | #8356 |
| 2011 | 7 | #9942 |
| 2010 | 10 | #7753 |
| 2009 | 10 | #7871 |
| 2008 | 13 | #6513 |
| 2007 | 10 | #7762 |
| 2006 | 12 | #6588 |
| 2005 | 10 | #7275 |
| 2004 | 16 | #5075 |
Source: U.S. Social Security Administration. Showing years with 5+ recorded births.
While overwhelmingly a boy's name, Emeka has also been given to 17 girls in the U.S. since 1974.
Last updated May 2026 · Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (1974–2024) · Methodology