مرتضى

Murtala

boyArabicMuslim

Murtala is a Muslim boy name of Arabic, Hausa form origin, meaning “Chosen, one with whom God is pleased”.

MeaningChosen, one with whom God is pleased
GenderBoy
OriginArabic, Hausa form
Written asمرتضى
Pronunciationmoor-TAH-lah
TraditionMuslim
Used inNigeria

Meaning and origin of Murtala

Murtala is the Hausa version of the Arabic Murtaḍā, meaning chosen or approved. Its root r-ḍ-y is about being pleased and content. Hausa often turns the Arabic ḍ sound into an l, which is how Murtada became Murtala. Al-Murtaḍā is a famous title of ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib, and Nigerians strongly associate it with Murtala Mohammed, who once led the country.

Is Murtala a Muslim name?

Murtala carries a title of Ali ibn Abi Talib in its Hausa form and is a favourite among Nigerian Muslims. The root appears often in the Quran, as in 'Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him' (Quran 98:8).

How popular is Murtala?

Popular throughout Nigeria, particularly in the north and among Yoruba Muslims.

Gifts with the name Murtala

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Spellings and variants of Murtala

MurtadaMurtazaMortaza

Names similar to Murtala

More Muslim boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Murtala mean?

Murtala means 'Chosen, one with whom God is pleased'. It is of Arabic, Hausa form origin.

Is Murtala a Muslim name?

Murtala carries a title of Ali ibn Abi Talib in its Hausa form and is a favourite among Nigerian Muslims. The root appears often in the Quran, as in 'Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him' (Quran 98:8).

How do you pronounce Murtala?

Murtala is pronounced moor-TAH-lah.

Is Murtala a boy or girl name?

Murtala is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.