Kebbi State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, is renowned for its agricultural strength, particularly in rice production. Beyond its agrarian reputation, the state also boasts a number of wealthy and influential individuals who have shaped not only Kebbi’s development but Nigeria’s broader political and economic landscape. These men, drawn from politics, business, law, and industry, are among the most powerful figures in the state today.
In this blog post, we explore the top 10 richest men in Kebbi State, their sources of wealth, and the roles they have played in transforming their communities and the state at large.
1. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu
Net Worth Estimate: Multi-billion naira (exact figure undisclosed)
Source of Wealth: Politics, real estate, oil and gas
Role: Former Governor of Kebbi State, Current Minister of Budget and Economic Planning
Abubakar Atiku Bagudu is undoubtedly one of the most prominent names in Kebbi State. A former governor and now a federal minister, Bagudu is a long-standing political figure in Nigeria. He comes from a well-established family and has accumulated significant wealth over decades of political and business engagements.
He gained national attention during the Pandora Papers investigation, which alleged he helped launder billions of dollars during the Abacha regime. Despite these controversies, Bagudu continues to play a central role in economic planning and development initiatives at both state and national levels.
2. Abubakar Malami, SAN
Net Worth Estimate: ₦200 billion+ (Approx. $500 million)
Source of Wealth: Legal practice, government service, real estate
Role: Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice
Abubakar Malami served as Nigeria’s Minister of Justice from 2015 to 2023 and is one of Kebbi State’s most affluent and controversial figures. Beyond his legal and political career, Malami is a major investor in real estate, hospitality, and education.
Investigative reports have linked him to multiple luxury properties and businesses, particularly in Birnin Kebbi and Abuja. His wealth, largely built during his time in public office, places him among the richest public officials from the state. Despite criticisms, Malami has contributed to educational and health sector initiatives in his community.
3. Muhammad Adamu Aliero
Net Worth Estimate: Multi-billion naira
Source of Wealth: Politics, trading, customs service
Role: Former Governor, Senator, and FCT Minister
Muhammad Adamu Aliero has been a political mainstay in Kebbi and Nigeria at large. He served as governor from 1999 to 2007 and has held various positions including Senator and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Before entering politics, he was involved in import and export trading after retiring from the Nigerian Customs Service. His long public career and business interests have enabled him to accumulate considerable wealth. Aliero is known for investing in education and healthcare infrastructure in his home state.
4. Usman Saidu Nasamu Dakingari
Net Worth Estimate: Multi-billion naira
Source of Wealth: Politics, customs, real estate
Role: Former Governor of Kebbi State
Dakingari served as the governor of Kebbi State between 2007 and 2015. Prior to his governorship, he had a successful career in the Nigerian Customs Service. He is also notable for being married to the daughter of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
Though private about his business dealings, Dakingari is believed to have significant investments in real estate and other sectors. He remains a respected figure in Kebbi’s political and economic spheres.
5. Yahaya Abubakar Abdullahi
Net Worth Estimate: Estimated millions of dollars
Source of Wealth: Politics, agriculture, education
Role: Senator, former Majority Leader
Dr. Yahaya Abubakar Abdullahi is an academic-turned-politician who has held various legislative roles including Senate Majority Leader. With a background in agriculture and academia, he has leveraged his expertise to invest in agro-processing and cooperative farming schemes in Kebbi State.
His investments have helped empower thousands of farmers across northern Nigeria. He is particularly noted for sponsoring scholarships and supporting young agripreneurs.
6. Bala Ibn Na’Allah
Net Worth Estimate: Undisclosed (but substantial)
Source of Wealth: Politics, law, insurance, real estate
Role: Former Senator for Kebbi South
Bala Ibn Na’Allah is a well-known legal and political figure in Kebbi. During his time in the Senate, he played a key role in legislative leadership. Outside public office, he has been involved in insurance, real estate, and consultancy services.
Though his exact net worth remains undisclosed, his assets in Birnin Kebbi and Abuja highlight his financial influence. He is also recognized for supporting community development projects.
7. Nasir Idris
Net Worth Estimate: Millions of dollars (conservatively)
Source of Wealth: Civil service, banking, politics
Role: Current Governor of Kebbi State
Dr. Nasir Idris assumed office as the governor of Kebbi State in 2023. He had previously worked in the banking and civil service sectors, eventually rising to leadership positions. His wealth stems from years of service in finance and government.
As governor, Idris has prioritized expanding agricultural programs, job creation, and infrastructure projects. His prudent financial background is seen as a strength in managing the state’s economy.
8. Abubakar Atiku Malami (Private Businessman)
Net Worth Estimate: ₦5 billion+
Source of Wealth: Hospitality, real estate
Role: Owner of JAMVALY Hotel and other businesses
A different individual from the former Attorney General, this Abubakar Atiku Malami is a notable businessman in Kebbi’s hospitality and tourism sector. He owns the luxurious JAMVALY Hotel and several other establishments across northern Nigeria.
His business acumen has made him one of the richest private citizens in the state. He is known for his philanthropy and support for local entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry.
9. Dr. Ibrahim Usman
Net Worth Estimate: $15 million+
Source of Wealth: Agribusiness
Role: Founder of Usman Farms Ltd.
Dr. Ibrahim Usman is a key figure in Kebbi State’s agribusiness landscape. His company, Usman Farms Ltd., specializes in rice processing, packaging, and export. He has also established a vocational training institute to help youth acquire agricultural skills.
With annual revenues estimated in the billions of naira, Dr. Usman is among the most influential businesspeople in Kebbi’s agricultural sector.
10. Alhaji Musa Bagudo
Net Worth Estimate: $8 million+
Source of Wealth: Transport and logistics
Role: Founder of Bagudo Transport Services
Alhaji Musa Bagudo is a self-made entrepreneur who owns one of the largest transport fleets in Kebbi State. His company operates inter-state buses and logistics trucks, serving clients across northern Nigeria.
He has also invested in education and vocational training for drivers and mechanics. His contributions to employment and logistics development are widely recognized in the region.
Conclusion
Kebbi State may not often dominate the headlines when it comes to wealth, but it is home to a number of powerful and wealthy individuals who shape the economic and political framework of the state. From politics to agriculture, hospitality, and logistics, these men have amassed considerable fortunes and have given back to society through philanthropy and public service.
As Kebbi continues to grow in prominence, particularly in the agricultural sector, these individuals will likely remain key players in its development journey.
