Yobe State, located in northeastern Nigeria, is one of the country’s most strategic states because of its agricultural potential, emerging businesses, and strong political influence. Although the state is not as industrialized as Lagos, Kano, or Rivers, it has produced many wealthy businessmen, politicians, and investors who continue to shape the economy of the state and Nigeria at large.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 richest men in Yobe State 2025 and their net worth revealed, how they made their fortunes, and the industries they dominate. This guide is designed to help you understand where wealth is concentrated in Yobe State and inspire aspiring entrepreneurs.
1. Mai Mala Buni – Governor and Business Investor ($850 Million)
Mai Mala Buni is the richest man in Yobe State with an estimated net worth of $850 million.
How He Made His Wealth
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Politics: As the current Governor of Yobe State and former APC National Chairman, Buni has held several influential political positions.
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Business Ventures: Investments in real estate, agriculture, and logistics across Nigeria.
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Hospitality: Owns luxury hotels in Abuja and Yobe.
Contributions to Yobe State
Buni has contributed greatly to infrastructural development, education, and health projects in the state, further enhancing his influence.
2. Bukar Abba Ibrahim – Former Governor and Businessman ($600 Million)
Bukar Abba Ibrahim, a three-term former Governor of Yobe State and one-time senator, has a net worth of $600 million.
Sources of Wealth
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Politics: Long career in politics, holding top leadership positions.
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Real Estate: Owns numerous properties in Abuja, Lagos, and Damaturu.
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Agriculture: Investments in mechanized farming and cattle ranching.
3. Senator Ahmed Lawan – Politician and Business Investor ($500 Million)
Ahmed Lawan, the immediate past Senate President, is one of the most influential politicians in Nigeria. His estimated net worth is $500 million.
How He Earned His Fortune
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Politics: Decades in the National Assembly with access to political networks.
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Real Estate: Large real estate holdings in Abuja and Yobe.
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Education and Transport: Investments in private schools and transport businesses.
4. Mohammed Abba Gana – Business Magnate and Politician ($450 Million)
Mohammed Abba Gana is a seasoned politician and businessman with a net worth of $450 million.
Wealth Sources
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Construction and Infrastructure: Contracts for road and housing development projects.
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Agriculture: Owns expansive farmlands in Yobe and Borno States.
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Import and Export: Engages in trade of agricultural produce and building materials.
5. Ibrahim Gaidam – Former Governor and Senator ($400 Million)
Ibrahim Gaidam, another former Governor of Yobe State and current senator, is worth about $400 million.
Businesses and Investments
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Politics: Served as governor from 2009 to 2019 and has been in the Senate since then.
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Real Estate: Investments in luxury estates and hotels.
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Agriculture: Large-scale rice and maize farming projects.
6. Ali Sheriff – Business Tycoon and Politician ($380 Million)
Ali Modu Sheriff, though originally from Borno State, has strong ties to Yobe and significant investments in the state. His estimated net worth is $380 million.
Key Investments
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Oil and Gas: Owns stakes in oil distribution companies.
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Aviation and Logistics: Investments in transport and airline services.
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Construction: Infrastructure projects across Yobe State.
7. Sani Machina – Businessman and Agricultural Investor ($300 Million)
Sani Machina is a prominent businessman and agricultural investor in Yobe State with a net worth of $300 million.
Sources of Wealth
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Agriculture: Owns one of the largest cattle ranches in northeastern Nigeria.
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Real Estate: Property development in Damaturu and Abuja.
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Hospitality: Hotels and resorts in Yobe State.
8. Goni Bukar – Industrialist and Politician ($250 Million)
Goni Bukar has a net worth estimated at $250 million.
How He Built His Wealth
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Manufacturing: Operates small manufacturing plants for building materials.
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Politics: Held several government appointments in the state.
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Real Estate: Significant land and property ownership.
9. Ibrahim Bomai – Senator and Business Investor ($200 Million)
Ibrahim Bomai is a businessman and current senator representing Yobe State with a net worth of $200 million.
Wealth Sources
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Banking: Former senior executive at the Central Bank of Nigeria.
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Real Estate and Agriculture: Vast landholdings and farms.
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Hospitality: Resorts and event centers in northern Nigeria.
10. Tijjani Abubakar – Entrepreneur and Agricultural Tycoon ($180 Million)
Tijjani Abubakar closes the list with a net worth of $180 million.
Business Activities
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Agriculture: Mechanized farming of wheat, maize, and rice.
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Trade: Import and export of farm produce.
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Real Estate: Residential and commercial buildings.
Summary Table of the Top 10 Richest Men in Yobe State
Rank | Name | Net Worth (USD) | Main Industries |
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1 | Mai Mala Buni | $850 Million | Politics, Real Estate, Agriculture |
2 | Bukar Abba Ibrahim | $600 Million | Politics, Real Estate, Agriculture |
3 | Ahmed Lawan | $500 Million | Politics, Real Estate, Education |
4 | Mohammed Abba Gana | $450 Million | Construction, Agriculture, Trade |
5 | Ibrahim Gaidam | $400 Million | Politics, Real Estate, Agriculture |
6 | Ali Sheriff | $380 Million | Oil & Gas, Aviation, Construction |
7 | Sani Machina | $300 Million | Agriculture, Real Estate, Hospitality |
8 | Goni Bukar | $250 Million | Manufacturing, Real Estate, Politics |
9 | Ibrahim Bomai | $200 Million | Banking, Real Estate, Hospitality |
10 | Tijjani Abubakar | $180 Million | Agriculture, Real Estate, Trading |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the richest man in Yobe State?
Mai Mala Buni is the richest man in Yobe State with an estimated net worth of $850 million.
2. Which industries create the most wealth in Yobe State?
Politics, agriculture, real estate, construction, and trade are the leading sectors that generate significant wealth.
3. Are these billionaires involved in community development?
Yes, most of them fund education, healthcare, and infrastructural projects in Yobe State.
4. How did Ahmed Lawan make his money?
Through his long political career, real estate investments, and ownership of private educational institutions.
5. Is agriculture a major source of wealth in Yobe State?
Yes, the state’s fertile land supports large-scale farming, making agriculture one of the key wealth creators.
6. Do these billionaires have investments outside Yobe State?
Yes, they have extensive business interests in Abuja, Lagos, and other states.
7. Which businesses are profitable in Yobe State?
Agriculture, logistics, real estate, and construction are among the most profitable businesses.
8. Are young entrepreneurs in Yobe State building wealth?
Yes, many young people are investing in agribusiness, trading, and tech-related services.
Conclusion
The top 10 richest men in Yobe State 2025 and their net worth revealed shows that the state’s economy is largely driven by politics, agriculture, real estate, and business investments. These individuals not only control massive wealth but also play key roles in shaping the development of Yobe State.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, their success stories are inspiring. Yobe State is filled with untapped opportunities in agriculture, construction, and real estate, and those who take advantage of them can build substantial wealth.