Have you ever wondered who the first class and richest kings in Nigeria are? Which monarchs control not only traditional authority but also incredible wealth and influence? If you've been curious about who the most powerful kings in Nigeria are, which royal families are the wealthiest, or how Nigerian monarchs maintain their legacy and wealth — this article gives you everything you need to know in detail.

Nigeria is a country rich in cultural heritage, and its traditional rulers play a vital role in community development, land matters, and historical continuity. Some kings, known as First Class Monarchs, are not just respected figures but are also multi-billionaires in naira, with palaces that rival government houses.

In this detailed post, I’ll walk you through the top first class and richest kings in Nigeria in 2025, their net worth, influence, palaces, sources of wealth, and the historical legacy that makes them powerful today.


1. Oba Obateru Akinrutan – Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom (Net Worth: $300 Million)

Oba Obateru Akinrutan is one of the richest kings in Nigeria and Africa. He is the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom in Ondo State and the founder of Obat Oil, one of Nigeria’s largest privately-owned oil companies.

How He Built His Wealth: Oba Akinrutan built his empire through the oil and gas industry, real estate, and investments in hospitality. He owns multiple properties in Nigeria and abroad.

Power and Influence: As a first-class monarch, he commands authority in the Niger Delta region and has strong political and economic ties.

Notable Assets:

  • Obat Oil Filling Stations

  • A custom-built Rolls Royce

  • Palatial residence in Ugbo Kingdom

2. Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar IV – Sultan of Sokoto (Net Worth: $100 Million)

The Sultan of Sokoto is the spiritual leader of all Muslims in Nigeria. He holds the highest Islamic traditional title in Nigeria and is regarded as the most influential traditional ruler in Northern Nigeria.

His Influence: He plays a vital role in national religious matters and policy advisory for Northern states.

Sources of Wealth: The Sultanate controls large land assets, receives federal allocations, and benefits from religious pilgrimage operations.

What Makes Him Powerful: He leads the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and is respected in Islamic and political circles.


3. Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi – Ooni of Ife (Net Worth: $90 Million)

The Ooni of Ife is a first-class Yoruba king and spiritual leader of the Yoruba people globally. Oba Ogunwusi is a businessman and real estate mogul before ascending the throne.

Sources of Wealth: He made his money from real estate development, manufacturing, and cultural tourism.

Why He Is Powerful: The Ooni influences both traditional, cultural, and modern political matters. He regularly engages in youth empowerment and cultural diplomacy.

His Palace: The Ooni’s palace in Ile-Ife is a historic site, filled with gold artifacts and ancient symbols.


4. Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi – Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom (Net Worth: $80 Million)

Oba Elegushi is one of the youngest and most stylish kings in Nigeria. He became king at age 34 and has quickly become a social and political influencer.

His Business Interests: He is involved in real estate, hospitality, and urban land development around Lagos.

His Lifestyle: Known for his luxurious lifestyle, Elegushi owns fleets of exotic cars and has one of the most modern palaces in Nigeria.

Influence in Lagos: Being close to political powerhouses in Lagos gives him additional clout.


5. Oba Ewuare II – Oba of Benin (Net Worth: $70 Million)

The Oba of Benin is a powerful monarch in Edo State with deep-rooted cultural significance. He oversees the Benin Kingdom, one of the oldest and most structured monarchies in Africa.

Cultural Wealth: Beyond monetary value, the Oba presides over priceless artifacts and land inheritance.

Authority: The Oba has influence over chiefs, communities, and politicians in Edo State.

Historical Significance: His palace is a UNESCO-recognized site filled with royal bronze works and historical relics.


6. Emir Aminu Ado Bayero – Emir of Kano (Net Worth: $55 Million)

The Emir of Kano leads one of the most influential emirates in Northern Nigeria. He inherited wealth from the prestigious Bayero family.

Sources of Wealth: The Kano Emirate controls assets in agriculture, land, and receives huge community contributions.

Role in the North: The Emir is highly respected in business and Islamic institutions.

Modern Touch: Ado Bayero blends tradition with technology, appealing to both old and young.


7. Obi Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe – Obi of Onitsha (Net Worth: $50 Million)

The Obi of Onitsha is one of the most educated kings in Nigeria. With a background in Shell and business administration, he commands wealth and wisdom.

Source of Influence: His global education, business acumen, and connection to Igbo communities across the world elevate his power.

His Palace: A fusion of modern luxury and Igbo tradition, attracting visitors from all over.


8. Dein Keagborekuzi I – Dein of Agbor (Net Worth: $45 Million)

Dein Keagborekuzi I is one of the youngest monarchs in Nigeria, ascending the throne at just 2 years old.

What Makes Him Unique: He studied abroad and is very involved in youth empowerment and modern leadership.

His Wealth: Investments in oil, real estate, and education help him maintain financial stability.


9. Olu of Warri – Ogiame Atuwatse III (Net Worth: $40 Million)

The Olu of Warri presides over a rich oil-producing region in Delta State. The current Olu is young, educated, and dynamic.

Power and Wealth: The kingdom benefits from oil royalties and land investments.

What Makes Him Stand Out: His strong command of culture and diplomacy gives him both national and international recognition.


10. Tor Tiv – Prof. James Ayatse (Net Worth: $30 Million)

The Tor Tiv is the paramount ruler of the Tiv Nation in Benue State. He is highly respected for combining academic excellence with traditional leadership.

Sources of Wealth: Federal allocations, land resources, and royalties from agriculture-rich communities.

Why He’s Powerful: He represents one of the largest ethnic groups in the Middle Belt.


Conclusion

Nigeria’s first class and richest kings in 2025 represent a blend of tradition, business, and influence. These monarchs are not just cultural leaders; they are billionaires, political powerhouses, and global icons of royalty.

From the oil-rich Oba of Ugbo to the spiritual strength of the Sultan of Sokoto and the heritage of the Oba of Benin, each king on this list shows that Nigerian royalty is deeply rooted in wealth, culture, and respect.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is the richest king in Nigeria in 2025?
Oba Obateru Akinrutan of Ugbo is currently the richest king in Nigeria with a net worth of $300 million.

2. What makes a king first class in Nigeria?
First class kings are traditional rulers recognized by state and federal governments for their large population base, historical importance, and level of influence.

3. Are Nigerian kings rich through public funds?
Many have private businesses or inherited wealth, though some also receive government support and allocations.

4. Which states have the most powerful kings in Nigeria?
Lagos, Ondo, Kano, Edo, and Sokoto have kings with the most influence and wealth.

5. Do Nigerian kings influence politics?
Yes. Most first class monarchs play advisory roles in governance and maintain relationships with top politicians.