Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, is not just a hub for business moguls but also home to politicians who wield significant financial power.
Many of these politicians have accumulated their wealth through business ventures, strategic investments, and, in some cases, controversial dealings.
Their assets—ranging from luxurious estates to high-profile businesses—give a glimpse into their vast fortunes.
This listicle provides an in-depth look at the top 10 richest politicians in Nigeria, their sources of wealth, and their most prized possessions.
However, before we take a ride into this richness, please note that these figures are estimates, and the actual net worth of these individuals may vary.
The rankings are based on available informations that were gathered and may not reflect the most current financial standings but the closest.
1. Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Estimated Net Worth: Over $4 billion
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the current President of Nigeria and former Governor of Lagos State is one of the wealthiest and most influential politicians in the country.
His fortune stems from political influence, real estate investments, and stakes in multiple industries.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Real Estate: Tinubu is rumoured to own numerous high-value properties in Lagos, including the Oriental Hotel, Ikoyi, and Banana Island estates.
Political Influence: His control over Lagos politics has given him access to lucrative deals.
Consulting and Revenue Collection: His alleged stake in Alpha Beta Consulting, a company that handles revenue collection for Lagos State, has contributed significantly to his wealth.
Most Prized Assets:
Prime Real Estate: Multiple properties in Lagos, Abuja, and foreign locations.
Private Jet: A Bombardier Global Express XRS worth over $50 million.
Media Empire: Owns TVC, The Nation newspaper, and other media outlets.
2. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB)
Estimated Net Worth: Over $3 billion
Ibrahim Babangida, Nigeria’s former military ruler (1985-1993), is believed to be one of the country’s richest politicians, with wealth allegedly amassed through oil deals, international business connections, and military-era contracts.
He recently also raised substantial funds during the launch of his autobiography, A Journey in Service, held in Abuja on February 20, 2025.
The event also served as a fundraiser for the proposed IBB Presidential Library.
Reports indicate that donations totalled between N16 billion and N17.5 billion.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Oil and Gas Investments: Babangida reportedly has interests in several oil companies.
Military-Era Deals: He allegedly made financial gains through government contracts during his rule.
Most Prized Assets:
Hilltop Mansion, Minna: A massive estate featuring advanced security and luxury amenities.
Offshore Accounts: Reports suggest he has substantial funds in international banks.
3. Atiku Abubakar
Estimated Net Worth: Over $1.5 billion
Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria (1999-2007), is a businessman with interests in oil, education, and logistics.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Intels Nigeria Limited: His company dominates the oil and gas logistics sector.
Education: He owns the prestigious American University of Nigeria (AUN).
Real Estate: Atiku owns properties in Nigeria, Dubai, and the U.S.
Most Prized Assets:
American University of Nigeria (AUN): A top-tier private university.
Luxury Real Estate: Homes in Abuja, Dubai, and the United States.
4. Orji Uzor Kalu
Estimated Net Worth: Over $1.3 billion
Orji Uzor Kalu, a former governor of Abia State, is an influential businessman and senator. He built his empire through various industries, including media, banking, and oil.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
SLOK Holding: A multinational company with interests in banking, oil, shipping, and real estate.
Media: He owns The Sun newspaper and shares with other media houses.
Most Prized Assets:
Private Jet: Gulfstream G650 worth about $72 million.
Mansion in Maryland, USA: A multi-million-dollar residence.
5. Andy Uba
Estimated Net Worth: Over $1 billion
Andy Uba, a former senator from Anambra State, made his fortune through business dealings and close ties with past administrations.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Government Contracts: He benefited from lucrative government contracts under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Real Estate: Owns high-end properties in Nigeria and the U.S.
Most Prized Assets:
Luxury Homes in Abuja and the U.S.
Expensive Car Collection: Features Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and other luxury brands.
6. Bukola Saraki
Estimated Net Worth: Over $1 billion
Bukola Saraki, former Senate President and governor of Kwara State hails from a wealthy banking family.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Banking: His family founded First City Monument Bank (FCMB).
Politics and Business: Investments in various sectors, including oil and real estate.
Most Prized Assets:
Luxury Mansion in Ikoyi: Valued at millions of dollars.
Expensive Yachts and Cars.
7. Nasir El-Rufai
Estimated Net Worth: Over $900 million
Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State and ex-Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is known for his vast investments in real estate, construction, and consultancy.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Real Estate and Construction: He played a key role in restructuring Abuja and is believed to have stakes in various high-value properties.
Consultancy: Before venturing into politics, El-Rufai ran a successful consulting firm with international contracts.
Oil and Gas: He has investments in energy and oil-related businesses.
Most Prized Assets:
Luxury Estates in Abuja and Kaduna: He owns high-end properties in prime locations.
International Real Estate: El-Rufai is rumoured to have investments in Dubai and other global financial hubs.
Business Investments: Shares in construction and infrastructure companies.
8. Ahmad Sani Yerima
Estimated Net Worth: Over $700 million
Ahmad Sani Yerima, the former Governor of Zamfara State and a former senator, is one of the wealthiest politicians in Northern Nigeria.
His wealth comes from government contracts, business ventures, and his deep involvement in politics since the early 2000s.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Government Contracts: He benefited from large infrastructure and development contracts during and after his tenure as governor.
Agriculture and Real Estate: Yerima has substantial investments in commercial farming and high-value properties in Abuja, Kaduna, and Zamfara.
Political Influence: He remains a key political player in the North, securing financial backing from various sources.
Most Prized Assets:
Massive Real Estate Portfolio: Owns estates in Abuja, Kaduna, and his home state of Zamfara.
Luxury Car Collection: Includes high-end SUVs, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley models.
Private Business Interests: Has shares in multiple companies across Nigeria.
9. Olusegun Obasanjo
Estimated Net Worth: Over $700 million
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has been a dominant political and business figure for decades.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Agriculture: He owns Obasanjo Farms, one of the largest in Africa.
Politics and Influence: Profited from government deals and advisory roles.
Most Prized Assets:
Ota Farm: A multi-million-dollar agricultural enterprise.
High-Value Real Estate.
10. Rochas Okorocha
Estimated Net Worth: Over $600 million
Rochas Okorocha, a former governor of Imo State, is known for his business empire and philanthropic work.
How He Accumulated His Wealth:
Education: Founder of Rochas Foundation Schools.
Real Estate: Owns multiple properties across Nigeria.
Most Prized Assets:
Rochas Foundation Schools: Providing free education to underprivileged children.
Luxury Homes in Imo and Abuja.
Conclusion
The wealth of Nigeria’s top politicians is a reflection of both their business acumen and political influence.
Their assets—spanning luxury estates, private jets, oil investments, and high-profile businesses—underscore their financial dominance.
While some made their fortunes through legitimate business ventures, others have faced corruption allegations. Regardless, they remain among the most powerful figures in Nigeria.
