صالح

Salihu

boyArabicMuslim

Salihu is a Muslim boy name of Arabic, Hausa form origin, meaning “Righteous, upright”.

MeaningRighteous, upright
GenderBoy
OriginArabic, Hausa form
Written asصالح
PronunciationSAA-lee-hoo
TraditionMuslim
Used inNigeria, West Africa

Meaning and origin of Salihu

Salihu is the Hausa version of Ṣāliḥ, meaning righteous. It ends in the -u that Hausa often adds to Arabic names, the same pattern seen in Musa, Haruna and Abdullahi. The name honours the prophet Ṣāliḥ, who was sent to the people of Thamūd. In northern Nigeria, Niger and Ghana it is widely used, both as a first name and as a family name.

Is Salihu a Muslim name?

As the Hausa rendering of Salih, a prophet named in the Quran, it carries clear Islamic meaning; the Quran says, 'And to Thamūd [We sent] their brother Ṣāliḥ' (Quran 7:73).

How popular is Salihu?

Hausa and Fulani Muslims give it very often, above all in northern Nigeria and neighbouring Niger.

Gifts with the name Salihu

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Spellings and variants of Salihu

SalihSalehSale

Names similar to Salihu

SalihSalehHarunaMusaAbdullahi

More Muslim boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Salihu mean?

Salihu means 'Righteous, upright'. It is of Arabic, Hausa form origin.

Is Salihu a Muslim name?

As the Hausa rendering of Salih, a prophet named in the Quran, it carries clear Islamic meaning; the Quran says, 'And to Thamūd [We sent] their brother Ṣāliḥ' (Quran 7:73).

How do you pronounce Salihu?

Salihu is pronounced SAA-lee-hoo.

Is Salihu a boy or girl name?

Salihu is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.