Nigeria, a nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage, boasts a tapestry of traditional rulers whose influence transcends time. These monarchs, adorned with regal splendor and commanding reverence, not only uphold ancient customs but also wield significant economic power in the modern era. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene landscapes of Onitsha, Nigeria’s kings represent a blend of tradition, wealth, and influence, shaping the country’s cultural landscape and contributing to its socio-economic development. Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the Top 10 richest kings in Yoruba land, exploring their fortunes, legacies, and the indelible mark they leave on the nation’s history.
Top 10 Richest Kings in Yoruba Land & Net Worth
Here is a list of the top 10 richest kings in Yoruba land .
1. Oba Obateru Akinruntan – $300 million
According to Forbes, Obateru Akinrutan is the wealthiest king in Nigeria. He was born in 1950 and rules over the Ugbo Kingdom, located in Ilaje Local Government of Ondo State. Oba Akinrutan is one of the richest monarchs in Nigeria. His investments include oil and gas, as well as real estate.
He is the founder of Obat Oil, established in 1981. Today, Obat Oil operates more than 50 gas stations across Nigeria.
Forbes estimates Oba Akinrutan’s net worth at US$300 million, making him the second wealthiest king in Africa, after King Mohammed. He is also the richest king in Nigeria.
The monarch is known for his extravagant lifestyle. He owns a watch valued at $1 million and made history as the first black person to purchase a 2014 Bentley automobile. Additionally, Oba Akinrutan drives a custom-built 2012 Rolls-Royce, similar to the one used by Queen Elizabeth II.
As the Olugbo of Ugbo kingdom, Oba Akinrutan possesses several luxury cars. Among them is a Bentley Mulsanne, worth over ₦100 million, and a custom-built Rolls-Royce (2012 model), rumored to be on par with the Queen of England’s vehicle.
2. Sa’adu Abubakar (Sultan of Sokoto) – $100 million
Sa’adu Abubakar holds the title of the 20th Sultan of Sokoto. As Sultan, he is seen as the religious leader of Muslims in Nigeria. Abubakar is the descendant of Sheikh Usman Dan Fodio, who founded the throne over 200 years ago. Usman Dan Fodio was a leader in the Maliki branch of Islam and the Qadiri branch of Sufism. He became Sultan on November 2, 2006, after his brother, Muhammadu Maccido, passed away in the ADC Airlines Flight 53 tragedy.
As a ruler, Abubakar is quite wealthy. He receives support from the government, institutions, and private individuals in the northern region, as well as Muslim associations across Nigeria.
The Sultan of Sokoto owns a Rolls-Royce, which sets him apart as one of the country’s affluent leaders. His net worth is estimated at $100 million.
3. Lamido Sanusi Lamido (Former Emir of Kano) – $80 million
Lamido Sanusi Lamido served as the Governor of the Nigerian Central Bank and later became the 14th Emir of Kano. He became Emir in 2014 following the passing of his grand-uncle, Ado Bayero.
Time magazine in 2011 listed the Emir among the top 100 most influential people in the world due to his outspoken nature to issues. However, on March 9, 2020, he was removed from his position by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
He receives an annual allowance from the Nigerian government, totaling around 14 million Naira each year. As a prominent figure from the Northern region, he owns several luxury cars, with two Rolls-Royces being the most notable among them.
4. Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Enitan (Ooni Of Ife) – $70 million
The most powerful king in Yoruba land according to most scholars is Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Eniitan who is the current Ooni of Ife. Born on October 17, 1974, the Oni is not just a traditional ruler but a successful entrepreneur with investments spanning various sectors. His innovative business approach and dedication to social responsibility have garnered him widespread acclaim.
Oba Adeyeye is highly regarded globally and possesses a strong educational background. He graduated with distinction in accounting from Ibadan Polytechnic and holds prestigious positions such as being a prominent member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. Additionally, he serves as the Chancellor at the University of Nigeria. Before ascending the throne in 2015, he was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s business community, symbolizing the rich Yoruba tradition and commanding immense respect and admiration.
While the precise details of the Oni’s wealth remain undisclosed, his fleet of luxury cars, including Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Mercedes-Benz models, hints at substantial financial resources, estimated to range from $33 million to $150 million.
5. Oba Ewuare II Ogidigan (Oba of Benin) – $65 million
Oba Ewuare II Ogidigan is the king of the Benin Kingdom. He holds a lot of power and influence. He became the Oba of Benin on October 20, 2016, and is the 40th Oba in the kingdom’s history. The title of Oba dates back to between 1180 and 1300 when it was created for the ruler of the Benin Empire.
Oba Ogidigan studied Economics at the University of Wales in the UK and earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Rutgers University Graduate School in New Jersey, USA.
Apart from being the king, Oba of Benin also represents Nigeria in other countries. He lives in a magnificent palace fit for a monarch of his status. Oba Ewuare II Ogidigan is among Nigeria’s top 10 wealthiest kings with a net worth of about $60 million.
In addition to other cars, the Oba of Benin owns a 2016 model Rolls-Royce Phantom worth over N150 million.
6. Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu (Obi of Onitsha) – $50 million
The esteemed Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu holds the prestigious title of the 21st Obi of Onitsha in Anambra State, Nigeria. Alongside his traditional role, he has served as the chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University since 2015 and previously held the same position at Kogi State University.
As the revered traditional ruler of Onitsha since 2002, Igwe Achebe is renowned for his astute leadership and profound wisdom. His net worth stands at an impressive $50 million, bolstered by his ownership of several luxury cars, including a 2016 Rolls-Royce.
7. King Alhaji Dr. Ado Bayero (Emir Kano) – $11 million
Aminu Ado Bayero commands respect and admiration in Nigeria as the Emir of Kano State, distinguished not only by his regal status but also by his successful business ventures.
Highly esteemed in the northern region, particularly among the Hausa community, he ascended to the throne following the dethronement of his nephew, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, in 2020. Aminu Ado Bayero shares a family lineage with Nasiru Ado Bayero, his brother from the same father.
His educational achievements include attending flight school in the United States and obtaining qualifications as a flight engineer.
Estimates place Aminu Ado Bayero’s net worth at approximately $11 million, attributed to inherited assets, shrewd investments, and thriving business ventures. Throughout his tenure, Emir Ado Bayero has been a steadfast advocate for peace, unity, and development within the Kano Emirate and Nigeria as a whole. His dedication to education is evident through various scholarship initiatives aimed at empowering the less privileged in society.
8. Olu of Warri – $10 million
The coronation of Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, also known as Tsola Emiko, as the new king of Warri Kingdom in Delta State sparked widespread excitement on the internet. Ascending the throne at just 37 years old in a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries, the youthful and affluent monarch has ambitious plans to make a lasting impact on his people.
Tsola Emiko, the 21st king of the Warri kingdom, comes from a distinguished royal lineage, born to Prince Godwin Toritseju Emiko (The Late Ogiame Atuwatse ll) and Gladys Durorike Emiko on 2nd April 1984 in Delta, Warri State.
The Olu of Warri boasts ownership of several luxury cars, including a custom-made Rolls Royce Phantom and a Bentley Continental, reflecting his opulent lifestyle.
9. Rilwan Babatunde Akiolu (Oba of Lagos) – $9 million
Oba Babatunde Aremu Akiolu, esteemed as the Oba of Lagos, holds a prominent position among Nigeria’s traditional rulers, renowned for his substantial wealth. Prior to his ascension to the throne, the king earned an LL.B. degree from the University of Lagos and served in the Nigerian Police Force for 32 years. With a palace valued at 2 billion naira and a diverse portfolio of assets, the Oba’s net worth is estimated at $9 million. Among his prized possessions is a 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 valued at over N34 million, enhancing his collection of luxury vehicles.
10. Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi I (Dein of Agbor) – $8 million
Eze Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi, acclaimed as the Dein of Agbor, earned the distinction of being the youngest king globally to be featured in the Guinness Book of Records. Ascending to the throne at the tender age of 2, he has remained a prominent royal figure ever since. After obtaining numerous degrees and certifications in the United Kingdom, he returned to Nigeria and was appointed Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, becoming the institution’s youngest Chancellor. This royal leader of Agbor has been seen traveling in a sleek black Mercedes Benz S550 Maybach (2015 model) worth approximately N65m.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s kings embody a fusion of tradition, affluence, and influence, shaping the country’s cultural fabric and contributing to its socio-economic growth. While the exact extent of their wealth remains undisclosed, their indelible impact on Nigerian society solidifies their status as revered figures in the nation’s history.
