Top 10 Richest Tribes in Nigeria (2024)
Nigeria is home to a diverse range of tribes, each with its own cultural heritage. In 2024, we will explore the top 10 richest tribes in Nigeria based on their wealth and financial success. These tribes have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy and are known for their prosperity and wealth.
These financially successful tribes in Nigeria have played a vital role in shaping the country’s economic landscape. From the opulent tribes in Nigeria to the financially powerful ethnic groups, their contributions have helped Nigeria become one of the wealthiest nations in Africa.
Join us as we delve into the world of Nigeria’s richest tribes in 2024 and explore the prosperous indigenous tribes that have made their mark on the country’s wealth and success.
TOP 10 RICHEST TRIBES IN NIGERIA (2024)
Here are the wealthiest Nigerian tribes today.
THE IGBO TRIBE
The Igbo tribe is considered the richest tribe in Nigeria. They are primarily located in the states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo. These are also the richest igbo states in the country. The Igbo tribe is known for producing a wealthy population, including individuals such as Arthur Eze, Allen Onyema, Obi Cubana, Cosmos Maduka, Diezani Alison-madueke, and Stella Oduah.
Arthur Eze is a prominent businessman and philanthropist who has made significant contributions to the Nigerian economy. He is involved in various industries, including oil and gas, and is known for his luxurious lifestyle.
Allen Onyema, the founder of Air Peace, is another wealthy individual from the Igbo tribe. Air Peace is one of the largest airlines in Nigeria and has played a crucial role in the development of the aviation industry in the country.
Obi Cubana, a popular entrepreneur and socialite, has also made headlines for his extravagant lifestyle and luxurious events. He owns multiple businesses, including nightclubs and hotels, and is known for his flamboyant displays of wealth.
WEALTHY IGBO PEOPLE:
- Arthur Eze
- Allen Onyema
- Obi Cubana
- Cosmos Maduka
- Diezani Alison-madueke
- Stella Oduah
- Peter Obi
The Igbo tribe is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen, which has contributed to their wealth and economic success. They have made significant strides in various industries, including finance, commerce, and entertainment. Their wealth and financial success have established them as the richest tribe in Nigeria.
THE YORUBA TRIBE
The Yoruba tribe is considered the second richest tribe in Nigeria, following the Igbo tribe. The Yoruba people are primarily located in the southwestern part of the country and have a long history of wealth and prosperity.
Many wealthy individuals have emerged from the Yoruba tribe, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economy. Some notable names include Mike Adenuga, the billionaire businessman and owner of Globacom, Nigeria’s second-largest telecoms operator. Femi Otedola, another prominent member of the Yoruba tribe, is an oil magnate and the founder of Forte Oil, one of the leading petroleum marketing companies in Nigeria.
Folorunsho Alakija, a successful businesswoman and philanthropist, is also a member of the Yoruba tribe. She is known for her ventures in the fashion, oil, and printing industries. Jimoh Ibrahim, a prominent lawyer and businessman, is another wealthy individual from the Yoruba tribe, with investments in various sectors such as telecommunications and hospitality.
The Yoruba tribe’s wealth and success can be attributed to their entrepreneurial spirit and involvement in various sectors of the economy. Lagos State, located in the south western geopolitical zone, is regarded as the richest state in Nigeria.
THE HAUSA TRIBE
The Hausa tribe is considered the third richest tribe in Nigeria. It is known for its wealthy individuals and their contributions to the country’s economy. One notable figure from the Hausa tribe is Aliko Dangote, who is not only the richest man in Nigeria but also the richest in Africa. Dangote, a successful businessman with interests in industries such as cement, sugar, and flour, has played a significant role in the economic development of Nigeria.
Another wealthy individual from the Hausa tribe is Abdulsamad Rabiu, the founder and chairman of BUA Group. Rabiu’s conglomerate has interests in various sectors, including cement, sugar, oil, and steel. His business acumen and success have made him one of the wealthiest individuals not only in Nigeria but also in Africa.
The Hausa tribe’s wealth can be attributed to their strong agricultural practices, as they are known for their skills in farming and animal husbandry. Additionally, they have made significant contributions to the political landscape of Nigeria, with influential leaders emerging from this tribe.
THE FULANI TRIBE
The Fulani tribe is one of the most influential and powerful tribes in Nigeria. With a rich history and cultural heritage, the Fulani people who can be found in the northern states in Nigeria, have played significant roles in shaping the country’s political landscape. They have produced prominent leaders, including two of the past three presidents of Nigeria – Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Muhammadu Buhari.
Aside from their political influence, the Fulani tribe is also known for its wealthy individuals. Abdulsamad Rabiu, a notable billionaire businessman, is of Fulani descent. He has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy through his investments in various industries.
Another prominent figure from the Fulani tribe is Atiku Abubakar, a successful entrepreneur and politician. With business interests spanning across multiple sectors, Atiku Abubakar has amassed considerable wealth throughout his career.
FULANI TRIBE: KEY POINTS
- The Fulani tribe is one of the most powerful and influential tribes in Nigeria.
- They have produced two of the past three presidents of Nigeria – Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Muhammadu Buhari.
- Prominent wealthy individuals from the Fulani tribe include Abdulsamad Rabiu and Atiku Abubakar.
THE EDO TRIBE
The Edo tribe, also known as the Bini tribe, is one of the wealthiest tribes in Nigeria. Known for their rich heritage and cultural achievements, the Edo people have also produced a number of highly successful and wealthy individuals.
One prominent figure from the Edo tribe is Gabriel Igbinedion, who has made a name for himself in the oil, banking, and mining industries. As the owner of multiple businesses, Igbinedion has amassed significant wealth and is considered one of the wealthiest individuals in Nigeria.
Another notable member of the Edo tribe is Mitchell Elegbe, the CEO of an online payment company. With a net worth in the billions, Elegbe’s success story reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and financial prowess of the Edo tribe.
THE ISOKO TRIBE
The Isoko tribe, also known as the Isoko people, is a small ethnic group located in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Despite their size, the Isoko tribe has produced several highly successful and wealthy individuals who have made significant contributions to various industries.
- Benedict Peter: One prominent member of the Isoko tribe is Benedict Peter. He is the CEO of AITEO Group, one of the largest indigenous oil producers in Nigeria. With his entrepreneurial skills and expertise in the oil sector, Benedict Peter has amassed substantial wealth and established his company as a major player in the industry.
- Tony Elumelu: Another notable individual from the Isoko tribe is Tony Elumelu, a prominent businessman and philanthropist. He is the founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which promotes entrepreneurship and economic development in Africa. Tony Elumelu has achieved remarkable success in the business world, particularly in the banking and investment sectors.
- Jim Ovia: Jim Ovia is also a member of the Isoko tribe and a highly successful entrepreneur. He is the founder and former CEO of Zenith Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions. Through his vision and strategic leadership, Jim Ovia has played a significant role in the growth and success of Zenith Bank.
The Isoko tribe’s wealth and success can be attributed to the determination, hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit of its members. These individuals have not only achieved financial prosperity but have also contributed to the development of Nigeria’s economy through their various endeavors.
The Isoko tribe continues to thrive and produce successful individuals in various fields. Their entrepreneurial mindset and commitment to excellence have propelled them to greater heights, both nationally and internationally. As the Isoko tribe continues to grow and evolve, it is expected that more individuals will rise to prominence and contribute to the tribe’s ongoing prosperity.
The success of the Isoko tribe serves as an inspiration to other ethnic groups in Nigeria and highlights the potential for wealth creation and economic growth across the country. By recognizing and celebrating the achievements of the Isoko people, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
THE IJAW TRIBE
The Ijaw tribe is one of the largest ethnic minorities in Nigeria, known for their expertise in oil trading and exploration. This expertise has led to the emergence of many wealthy individuals from the Ijaw tribe, who have capitalized on the abundant oil resources in their region. Two prominent figures from the tribe are Ben Murray Bruce and Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
Ben Murray Bruce is a well-known businessman and politician. He has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s business landscape through his ventures in industries such as entertainment and hospitality. Bruce’s wealth and influence have made him a prominent figure in the Ijaw tribe.
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the immediate past President of Nigeria, is also from the Ijaw tribe. During his presidency, Jonathan focused on various developmental initiatives and policies to drive economic growth in Nigeria. His leadership and political accomplishments have positioned him as a key representative of the tribe’s success.
The Ijaw tribe’s wealth and influence have been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s economic landscape. Their expertise in the oil industry and the accomplishments of individuals like Ben Murray Bruce and Goodluck Ebele Jonathan have solidified their position as one of the wealthiest tribes in Nigeria.
THE TIV TRIBE
The Tiv tribe is one of the indigenous groups in Nigeria, primarily located in states such as Benue, Nassarawa, Plateau, Taraba, and Cross River. The Tiv people have contributed to Nigeria’s wealth with their diverse economic activities and successful individuals.
Among the wealthy Tiv people, Betty Abah stands out as a notable figure. She is an acclaimed writer, journalist, and environmental activist who has made significant contributions in advocating for environmental protection and human rights. Abah’s work has garnered international recognition, elevating the profile of the Tiv tribe in the literary and activist spheres.
Another prominent individual from the Tiv tribe is Benson Abounu, who has built a successful career in politics. Abounu currently serves as the Deputy Governor of Benue State, contributing to the governance and development of the region. His political achievements and leadership role have brought recognition to the Tiv tribe.
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE TIV TRIBE:
- Significant contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural sector, particularly in the production of crops such as yam, maize, and sorghum.
- Promotion of arts and culture, with vibrant traditional festivals and artistic expressions.
- Emergence of successful individuals in various sectors, including politics, activism, literature, and more.
- Preservation of rich cultural traditions, language, and customs, maintaining a strong sense of identity.
The Tiv tribe continues to play a significant role in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape, combining their cultural heritage with individual achievements that contribute to the nation’s overall wealth and development.
THE KANURI TRIBE
The Kanuri tribe is one of Nigeria’s wealthiest tribes, known for their significant contributions to various sectors of the economy. This tribe is primarily found in states such as Borno, Niger, and Yobe. The Kanuri people have produced many individuals who have amassed significant wealth and made a name for themselves in business and politics.
One prominent figure from the Kanuri tribe is Mohammed Indimi, a highly successful businessman with interests in oil exploration and production. With his strategic investments and entrepreneurial acumen, Indimi has built a vast empire and has become one of the wealthiest individuals in Nigeria.
The Kanuri tribe is also home to other notable wealthy individuals such as Yahaya Adamu and Ibrahim Abacha. Adamu has made a name for himself in the banking sector, while Abacha has ventured into various business ventures and has achieved considerable financial success.
NOTABLE WEALTHY INDIVIDUALS FROM THE KANURI TRIBE:
- Mohammed Indimi – Successful businessman with interests in oil exploration and production.
- Yahaya Adamu – Prominent figure in the banking sector.
- Ibrahim Abacha – Entrepreneur with ventures in various industries.
The Kanuri tribe’s wealth and success are a testament to the tribe’s resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. Through their contributions to Nigeria’s economy, the Kanuri people have played a significant role in the country’s overall prosperity.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Nigeria is a country with a rich diversity of tribes, each contributing to its wealth and economic success. The top 10 richest tribes in Nigeria in 2024, including the Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, Fulani, Edo, Isoko, Ijaw, Tiv, Kanuri, and Ibibio tribes, are known for their prosperity and have produced many wealthy individuals.
These tribes have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy and are known for their financial success. The Igbo tribe, considered the richest tribe in Nigeria, has produced influential individuals such as Arthur Eze, Allen Onyema, Obi Cubana, Cosmos Maduka, Diezani Alison-madueke, and Stella Oduah. The Yoruba tribe, the second richest tribe, is home to wealthy individuals like Mike Adenuga, Femi Otedola, Folorunsho Alakija, and Jimoh Ibrahim.
The Hausa tribe, the third richest in Nigeria, boasts the likes of Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu among its wealthy members. The Fulani tribe, one of the most powerful and influential tribes, has produced two of the past three presidents of Nigeria, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Muhammadu Buhari. The Edo, Isoko, Ijaw, Tiv, Kanuri, and Ibibio tribes also have their fair share of wealthy individuals.
These tribes exemplify the economic and cultural wealth of Nigeria, showcasing the success stories that have emerged from different regions of the country. The richness and prosperity of these tribes contribute to Nigeria’s overall economic landscape, making them an essential part of the nation’s success.