الأول

Lawal

boyArabicMuslim

Lawal is a Muslim boy name of Arabic, Nigerian form origin, meaning “The first”.

MeaningThe first
GenderBoy
OriginArabic, Nigerian form
Written asالأول
PronunciationLAH-wahl
TraditionMuslim
Used inNigeria

Meaning and origin of Lawal

Lawal is a Nigerian form of the Arabic al-Awwal, 'the first', from a root about coming first. It is widespread among Yoruba and Hausa Muslims alike, and it serves both as a first name and as a family surname. Since al-Awwal is also a divine name, some parents opt for the fuller Abdul-Awwal, servant of the First, while many keep the familiar short form.

Is Lawal a Muslim name?

Al-Awwal is a name of Allah in the Quran, 'He is the First and the Last' (Quran 57:3), and Lawal is its familiar Nigerian form.

How popular is Lawal?

It is very common in Nigeria as both a given name and a family name.

Gifts with the name Lawal

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Spellings and variants of Lawal

LawaliAwwalAbdul-Awwal

Names similar to Lawal

More Muslim boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Lawal mean?

Lawal means 'The first'. It is of Arabic, Nigerian form origin.

Is Lawal a Muslim name?

Al-Awwal is a name of Allah in the Quran, 'He is the First and the Last' (Quran 57:3), and Lawal is its familiar Nigerian form.

How do you pronounce Lawal?

Lawal is pronounced LAH-wahl.

Is Lawal a boy or girl name?

Lawal is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.