The 10 Richest Men In Kaduna State
Kaduna State, located in Nigeria’s northwestern region, is a cultural, political, and economic powerhouse. With its rich history and status as the home of prestigious institutions like Ahmadu Bello University and the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna has birthed some of the most influential men in Nigeria. These men have not only shaped the direction of the state but also made their mark on national and international platforms. From politics and military to business and entertainment, this blog post unveils the ten richest men in Kaduna State as of 2025 and explores how they built their fortunes.
1. Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai – Estimated Net Worth: $400 Million
A name that resonates across Nigeria, Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai is the former Governor of Kaduna State (2015–2023). Known for his no-nonsense administrative style, el-Rufai is also a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. He co-founded the consulting firm El-Rufai & Partners, where he gained considerable financial success before entering the political sphere.
A Harvard Kennedy School alumnus and a graduate of Quantity Surveying from Ahmadu Bello University, el-Rufai’s wealth is a blend of public service earnings, private consultancy, and smart investments in real estate and energy. His strategic roles in governance and economic reform have placed him among Nigeria's elite.
2. Ishaya Shekari – Estimated Net Worth: Undisclosed (Estimated in Hundreds of Millions of Naira)
Ishaya Aboi Shekari is a retired military officer who transitioned into the business world with remarkable success. He served as the Military Governor of Kano State during Nigeria’s transition from military to civilian rule in 1979.
After retirement, Shekari became a business magnate. He held top positions such as Director at Diamond Bank Nigeria, Chairman of Lion Bank of Nigeria, and board member of Grand Cereals and Oil Mills. He currently chairs Magami Holdings Ltd, a diversified investment company. Although his net worth isn’t publicly declared, his widespread business interests signify considerable wealth and influence.
3. Danjuma Laah – Estimated Net Worth: Undisclosed
Senator Danjuma Laah Tella represents Kaduna South Senatorial District and is one of the wealthiest politicians in the region. Born in 1960, Laah rose through the civil service ranks, becoming Deputy Director of Finance and Accounts at the FCT Pension Board.
He later ventured into politics and was elected to the Nigerian Senate. Known for his philanthropic efforts and grassroots projects, Laah has substantial investments in agriculture, hospitality, and banking. His career in public finance and political influence contribute significantly to his wealth.
4. Andrew Yakubu – Estimated Net Worth: Over $100 Million
Andrew Laah Yakubu is a seasoned chemical engineer and former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Appointed in 2012, Yakubu oversaw one of the largest oil companies in Africa.
His vast experience in Nigeria’s lucrative oil and gas sector, including previous roles at NETCO, placed him in the corridors of wealth. Though he faced legal controversies involving large sums of money found in his home, Yakubu remains one of Kaduna’s richest individuals thanks to decades of high-level executive roles in the petroleum industry.
5. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi – Estimated Net Worth: $150 Million
Ahmed Makarfi, former Governor of Kaduna State (1999–2007) and ex-Senator, is an economist and banker. He earned his degrees in Accounting and Finance from Ahmadu Bello University and began his career at the now-defunct Nigeria Universal Bank, rising to Assistant General Manager.
As Governor and later as Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Makarfi amassed influence and wealth. He is respected for his economic policies and leadership experience, which also opened doors to profitable investments in banking and real estate.
6. Audu Maikori – Estimated Net Worth: $30 Million
A shining light in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, Audu Maikori is a lawyer, entrepreneur, and founder of Chocolate City Entertainment, one of Africa’s leading music labels. Born and raised in Kaduna, Audu studied Law at the University of Jos and worked briefly in the legal field before pursuing a career in entertainment.
Maikori is credited with launching the careers of iconic Nigerian artists like M.I Abaga and Ice Prince. His business acumen and successful ventures in music and media earned him global recognition, including the International Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2007.
7. Mukhtar Ramalan Yero – Estimated Net Worth: $50 Million
Mukhtar Yero served as the Governor of Kaduna State between 2012 and 2015, following the death of Governor Patrick Yakowa. An accountant by training, Yero had earlier served as the Commissioner for Finance and Deputy Governor.
He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Accounting from Ahmadu Bello University. Yero is known for his investments in real estate, local businesses, and his background in financial management, all of which contribute to his solid financial status.
8. General Martin Luther Agwai – Estimated Net Worth: $40 Million
A highly respected figure in Nigeria’s military history, General Martin Luther Agwai served as the Chief of Army Staff and later Chief of Defence Staff. Born in 1948, he attended military training institutions in Nigeria, the UK, and the US.
After retirement, Agwai held roles in international peacekeeping operations and was appointed Chairman of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P). His global reputation, strategic appointments, and consultancy work have made him one of Kaduna’s wealthiest elder statesmen.
9. Joel Amadi (Joe El) – Estimated Net Worth: $2 Million
Joel Amadi, better known by his stage name Joe El, is an Afrobeat singer and songwriter from Kaduna. He gained fame after participating in the Star Quest music competition and signing with Kennis Music.
Joe El’s music success, concerts, brand endorsements, and royalties contribute to his growing wealth. Though not in the league of billionaires, his consistent relevance in the Nigerian music scene has earned him a spot among Kaduna’s most successful entertainers.
10. Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi – Estimated Net Worth: Undisclosed
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi is one of the most influential Islamic clerics in Northern Nigeria. A trained medical doctor and former military officer, Sheikh Gumi serves as the lead imam at Sultan Bello Mosque, Kaduna’s largest mosque.
Although religious leaders rarely disclose financial details, Sheikh Gumi’s influence is backed by donations, speaking engagements, publishing, and international Islamic networks. His wealth may not be quantified publicly, but his authority and lifestyle suggest significant financial standing.
Final Thoughts
Kaduna State is home to an impressive array of wealthy and influential men who have made their mark across different industries. Whether through politics, oil and gas, banking, music, or religion, these individuals have amassed wealth that positions them among Nigeria's elite.
Their journeys reflect the multifaceted opportunities Kaduna offers — a state where intellect, enterprise, and public service converge to create lasting wealth and legacy. As younger generations rise, the baton of success continues to pass through new sectors like tech and creative industries, promising a richer future for Kaduna and Nigeria at large.
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