Top 10 Richest Men In Rivers State
Rivers State, located in the oil-rich South-South region of Nigeria, is one of the wealthiest states in the country in terms of natural and human resources. Its capital city, Port Harcourt, known as the “Garden City,” is a hub for oil and gas, real estate, finance, and hospitality, making it a fertile ground for wealth creation. Over the years, the state has produced a good number of influential and affluent individuals who have made their mark not just in Nigeria but globally.
In this detailed blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 richest men in Rivers State as of 2025, examining their net worth, sources of income, and impact on society.
1. Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs – Net Worth: $500 Million
Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs is undoubtedly one of the most prominent and wealthiest personalities in Rivers State. He is the son of the late High Chief O.B. Lulu-Briggs, a business magnate and founder of Moni Pulo Limited, one of Nigeria's foremost indigenous oil companies.
Following his father's passing, Dumo expanded the family business empire, now operating under the DLB Group, which spans oil and gas, marine logistics, and real estate. Known for his philanthropy, Dumo has played significant roles in youth empowerment and local community development, especially in the Niger Delta region.
2. Tonye Cole – Net Worth: $500 Million
Tonye Cole is a name that rings loud in Nigeria’s corporate circles. He is the co-founder of Sahara Group, a globally recognized energy conglomerate with operations across over 38 countries. The company deals in power, infrastructure, oil trading, and logistics.
Tonye is not just a businessman; he's also ventured into politics and is a known philanthropist. His experience and success in the oil and gas sector have positioned him among the richest individuals in Rivers State and one of the most influential figures nationally.
3. Atedo Peterside – Net Worth: $450 Million
Atedo Peterside is an accomplished entrepreneur, investment banker, and economist. He is best known as the founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank, one of Nigeria’s largest and most successful financial institutions. Peterside has held various influential roles in Nigeria’s banking and economic sectors, including serving on several boards and national advisory committees.
Apart from his investments in finance, Peterside also has interests in aviation, agriculture, and consultancy. His wealth and leadership continue to influence policy and business development across Nigeria.
4. Herbert Wigwe – Net Worth: $300 Million
Until his unfortunate passing in 2024, Herbert Wigwe was the CEO of Access Bank, one of the largest and most reputable financial institutions in Africa. Under his leadership, Access Bank witnessed exponential growth, expanding operations into several countries across the continent.
Wigwe’s influence transcended banking, with investments in real estate, fintech, and education, notably the establishment of Wigwe University in Rivers State, designed to be a world-class institution for higher learning. His legacy remains a cornerstone in Nigeria’s financial evolution.
5. Nyesom Wike – Net Worth: $200 Million
Nyesom Wike, a seasoned lawyer and influential politician, served as the Governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023. He is currently serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
Wike is known for his robust infrastructural development programs during his tenure as governor, transforming Rivers into one of the most developed states in the country. His political career, coupled with strategic real estate and construction investments, has significantly contributed to his personal wealth.
6. King Edward Asimini Pepple – Net Worth: $190 Million
King Edward Asimini Pepple is the traditional ruler of the Bonny Kingdom, one of the most culturally and economically significant communities in Rivers State. The Bonny Kingdom plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s oil production, being home to several multinational oil companies, including the Nigeria LNG facility.
As a monarch, King Pepple has managed extensive community-based projects and partnerships, overseeing development in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. His influence and leadership have attracted significant investment into the region, boosting both his profile and wealth.
7. Emmanuel Georgewill – Net Worth: $100 Million
Emmanuel Georgewill is the CEO of Cortech Oil Services Nigeria, a highly respected company that offers engineering and oilfield services. With a strong background in mechanical and production engineering, Georgewill built his enterprise from the ground up, focusing on quality and indigenous innovation.
His contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector are notable, especially in promoting local content. His business interests also extend to logistics, training services, and maritime support.
8. Tein George – Net Worth: $95 Million
Tein George is a business magnate known for his investments in hospitality and engineering. He is the owner of George's Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos — one of the most luxurious boutique hotels in Nigeria — and is involved in various high-end real estate projects in Port Harcourt and beyond.
Tein is also a director in several engineering and construction companies, reflecting his diverse income streams. His philanthropic work in health and youth education continues to earn him local and national recognition.
9. George Etomi – Net Worth: $90 Million
George Etomi is one of Nigeria’s most respected legal minds and the principal partner at George Etomi and Partners, a leading commercial law firm. With over three decades of experience in corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory advisory, he has served high-profile clients in Nigeria and internationally.
Etomi’s wealth comes from his professional legal practice, consultancy, and shares in multiple commercial ventures. He’s also active in governance reforms and has chaired legal panels at national and international levels.
10. Tein Jack-Rich – Net Worth: $90 Million
Tein Jack-Rich is the founder and CEO of Belemaoil Producing Limited, a landmark indigenous oil exploration and production company in Nigeria. He hails from Kula, an oil-rich community in Rivers State, and has been an advocate for community development and local participation in the oil sector.
Belemaoil is the first Nigerian company of its kind owned by a member of an oil-producing community, marking a significant shift in local empowerment. Tein Jack-Rich’s philanthropic efforts in building schools, water systems, and scholarships have elevated his standing as both a businessman and humanitarian.
Final Thoughts
Rivers State is not just rich in oil; it is home to some of the brightest minds and most successful entrepreneurs in Nigeria. These individuals have built fortunes through strategic investments, innovation, leadership, and dedication to uplifting their communities.
From oil and gas to finance, politics, and law, the top 10 richest men in Rivers State represent a diverse array of industries that drive both state and national development. Their influence continues to shape not only the economic narrative of Rivers but also that of Nigeria as a whole.
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