Wande, the Nigerian American Christian rapper, actress, and former journalist and A&R administrator from Austin, Texas, has embarked on a profound spiritual journey, resulting in a significant name change and a deeper alignment with her faith.
In moments of stillness with the Lord, He brought to Anike‘s remembrance her birth names, Mutiat and Yewande. Mutiat is an Arabic Muslim name meaning “obedience/devotion to Allah,” while Yewande is a Yoruba name meaning “the mother has returned” (reincarnation). Feeling led to seek guidance, she prayed with her mother, who shares her Christian faith, and through this spiritual journey, she was renamed.
Recommended Reading: Jackie Hill Perry Announces Signing to Reach Records
The name Anike, a short form of her fully hyphenated new middle name Ireoluwa-Anike, means “the goodness of God – we have something to care for and cherish.” This change reflects her full obedience, surrender, and submission to the Lord.
“Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ.” — Philippians 3:8 NLT
“For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” — Isaiah 55:9 NLT
With the support of her husband, parents, family, and business partners, Anike is stepping into this new season for the glory of Yahweh. She encourages everyone to lean into the Lord’s voice and tap into the Bible, regardless of their culture or what they may have been known for.
“Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth. Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” — Isaiah 43:18-19 NKJV
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.” — Psalms 111:10 NKJV
