Top 10 Richest Men In Taraba State
Taraba State, fondly called Nature's Gift to the Nation, is one of Nigeria’s most culturally diverse and naturally endowed states. Known for its scenic beauty, agricultural potential, and peaceful environment, Taraba is also home to several prominent personalities who have built immense wealth through business, politics, oil and gas, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.
While the state may not be as economically boisterous as Lagos or Abuja, it boasts some influential figures who have made national and even international headlines through their wealth, investments, and philanthropy.
In this article, we explore the top 10 richest men in Taraba State, their net worth, how they made their money, and the impact they've had on the state and beyond.
1. General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (Retired)
Estimated Net Worth: $5 Billion
General T.Y. Danjuma is undeniably the richest man in Taraba State and one of the wealthiest individuals in Nigeria. Born in Takum, Taraba State, he served in the Nigerian Army and rose to the rank of Lieutenant General. He also served as Minister of Defence under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
After his retirement from the military, Danjuma founded South Atlantic Petroleum (SAPETRO), an oil exploration and production company that has struck deals in Nigeria, Benin Republic, Central African Republic, and Madagascar. He also owns NAL Comet, a major shipping and logistics company.
Beyond business, Danjuma is a philanthropist. He established the TY Danjuma Foundation, which supports education, healthcare, and social development across Nigeria.
2. Rev. Jolly Nyame
Estimated Net Worth: $650 Million
Jolly Nyame was the first executive governor of Taraba State, serving from 1999 to 2007. He is also a reverend and respected religious figure. While his time in office was marked by controversy, Nyame has amassed significant wealth over the years, primarily from real estate, political influence, and investments.
Despite legal battles and a stint in prison over corruption allegations, Nyame remains a notable figure in Taraba's political and economic landscape. His properties and businesses are spread across several states in Nigeria.
3. Alhaji Sani Abubakar Danladi
Estimated Net Worth: $550 Million
A prominent politician and businessman, Alhaji Sani Danladi has served as the Deputy Governor of Taraba State and later as the Acting Governor. He was also elected as a senator, representing Taraba North.
Beyond politics, Danladi has diverse business interests in oil and gas, real estate, and hospitality. His influence extends into northern Nigeria’s business elite, and he continues to invest in community development within Taraba State.
4. Murtala Abdullahi Ishaku
Estimated Net Worth: $500 Million
Murtala Ishaku is an entrepreneur and businessman known for his significant investments in the oil and gas industry. With operations that cut across upstream and downstream sectors, he has quietly grown his fortune over the past two decades.
He is also involved in importation, logistics, and construction—industries that have helped increase his net worth while creating employment opportunities in Taraba and beyond.
5. Chief David Sabo Kente (DSK)
Estimated Net Worth: $300 Million
Chief David Sabo Kente, popularly known as DSK, is one of the most philanthropic and well-known businessmen in Taraba State. He is the founder of DSK Group International, a conglomerate with interests in hospitality, real estate, agriculture, and oil and gas.
DSK is also active in politics and has contested for the governorship of the state. His philanthropic arm, DSK Foundation, supports thousands of underprivileged youths in areas such as education, health, and empowerment programs.
6. Chief Emmanuel B.B. Ishaku
Estimated Net Worth: $250 Million
Chief Emmanuel Ishaku is a respected name in Taraba's agricultural and agro-processing industry. He has developed large-scale farming projects across the state, especially in the areas of cassava, rice, and livestock production.
His investments in agriculture have played a major role in reducing unemployment in rural communities and positioning Taraba as a key player in Nigeria’s food production chain.
7. Chief Julius Kai
Estimated Net Worth: $200 Million
Chief Julius Kai is a business magnate with substantial investments in the transportation and hospitality sectors. Known for his quiet demeanor, Kai has built a business empire focused on logistics and hotel chains across the North-Eastern region of Nigeria.
He is also known for sponsoring youth in vocational training and entrepreneurship development initiatives.
8. Dalhatu Umaru Sangari
Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
Dalhatu Sangari is an academic, politician, and former senator representing Taraba South. He began his career in academia, rising to become Deputy Dean at Bayero University, Kano. Transitioning to politics, he used his influence to build wealth through government contracts, policy consultancy, and regional investments.
Sangari remains a respected elder statesman in Taraba politics and is involved in educational development projects across the state.
9. Yusuf Abubakar Yusuf
Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million
An economist by profession, Yusuf Abubakar Yusuf is currently serving as a senator representing Taraba Central. He has had a long career in both academia and governance.
His wealth is derived from consulting, political career earnings, and strategic investments in real estate and agriculture. Yusuf is also active in policy-making at the national level and continues to champion rural development in Taraba.
10. Bala James Nggilari
Estimated Net Worth: $420 Million
Although Bala James Nggilari is originally from Adamawa State, his close business and political ties with Taraba earn him a spot on this list. He served as Governor of Adamawa State, but his family roots and investments span across Taraba as well.
His portfolio includes significant assets in oil and gas, education, and commercial agriculture. He is also a vocal advocate for northern integration and youth entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
While Taraba State may not often dominate the national economic headlines, it is home to influential and wealthy individuals who have played significant roles in business, governance, and national development. These men have not only created wealth for themselves but have also contributed to the state’s economic landscape through job creation, infrastructure development, and philanthropy.
From the globally recognized General T.Y. Danjuma to rising local billionaires like David Sabo Kente and Murtala Ishaku, these individuals prove that prosperity can indeed flourish in Taraba.
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