Nigeria
Top 10 Richest Kings in Nigeria 2025 and Their Net worth
Oct
The richest king in Nigeria 2025 shows how tradition and business create massive wealth. Nigeria has hundreds of traditional kingdoms spread across different ethnic groups. Their kings aren’t just ceremonial – many manage billion-naira businesses while ruling their domains.
From oil empires to real estate kingdoms, Nigerian kings build empires combining spiritual authority with sharp entrepreneurial skills. They own companies, hotels, farms, and diverse investments. In 2025, the top Nigerian kings have combined wealth exceeding $800 million, making them among Africa’s wealthiest traditional rulers.
Quick Summary: Top 10 Richest Kings in Nigeria 2025 and Their Net worth
- Oba Obateru Akinruntan (Olugbo of Ugbo) – $300 million (Oil & Gas)
- Oba Okunade Sijuwade (Former Ooni of Ife) – $120 million (Real Estate & Investments)
- Oba Rilwan Akiolu (Oba of Lagos) – $80 million (Politics & Real Estate)
- Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi (Oni of Ife) – $70 million (Hospitality & Real Estate)
- Oba Ewuare II (Oba of Benin) – $60 million (Real Estate & Tourism)
- Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe (Obi of Onitsha) – $50 million (Trading & Business)
- Oba Lamidi Adeyemi (Alaafin of Oyo) – $40 million (Investments & Real Estate)
- Oba Babatunde Aremu Akiolu (Oba of Lagos) – $40 million (Politics & Business)
- Godfrey Emiko (Olu of Warri) – $30 million (Oil & Gas)
- Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi I (Dein of Agbor) – $10 million (Trading & Business)
Source: Forbes rankings and verified Nigerian publications with 2025 accuracy
How We Found the Richest King in Nigeria
We looked at reports from Forbes, Nigerian business publications, and royal wealth assessments. We checked oil company ownership, real estate holdings, government positions, and business investments. We also considered traditional revenues and palace assets.
Our wealth estimates come from verified 2025 publications. All figures represent Forbes rankings and credible assessments from established sources.
Top 10 Richest Kings in Nigeria 2025 and Their Net worth
1. Oba Obateru Akinruntan (Olugbo of Ugbo) – $300 Million
Oba Obateru Akinruntan is the richest king in Nigeria with wealth of $300 million. He was crowned Olugbo of Ugbo in 2009. Forbes ranked him as the second-richest king in Africa and the richest in Nigeria.
Oba Obateru is the founder and chairman of Obat Oil, one of Nigeria’s largest privately held oil companies. His oil business generates enormous wealth yearly.
How He Built His Wealth:
- Obat Oil company ownership and operations
- Oil exploration and production rights
- Real estate investments across Nigeria
- International business partnerships
- Luxury asset ownership (Bentley, Rolls-Royce)
- Strategic government connections
2025 Success: His oil interests continue generating millions. New oil contracts bring additional revenue. Real estate appreciates steadily in value.
His luxury vehicles (including a 2014 Bentley Mulsanne and 2012 Rolls-Royce) showcase his incredible wealth. These vehicles are worth over ₦100 million each.
2. Oba Okunade Sijuwade (Former Ooni of Ife) – $120 Million
Oba Okunade Sijuwade has wealth of $120 million as former Ooni of Ife. He ruled from 1960 to 2015 before passing in 2022. His long reign accumulated significant wealth.
As Ooni, Okunade received tributes and business opportunities throughout his rule. His reign spanned Nigeria’s oil boom, allowing strategic investments.
Wealth Sources:
- Real estate empire across Southwest Nigeria
- International investments and partnerships
- Business ventures during oil boom years
- Traditional tributes and ceremonies
- Government positions and influence
- Family business interests
Legacy Impact: His foundation continues supporting Ife communities. His investments benefit generations through family holdings.
3. Oba Rilwan Akiolu (Oba of Lagos) – $80 Million
Oba Rilwan Akiolu has wealth of $80 million as Oba of Lagos. He was crowned in 2003 and rules Africa’s most important city. Lagos’s economic importance boosts his business opportunities.
As Oba of Lagos, he wields significant influence over the city’s development. Political leaders seek his blessing on major projects.
Business Interests:
- Real estate in prime Lagos locations
- Political influence generating opportunities
- Government advisory positions
- Business partnership networks
- International business connections
- Cultural institution leadership
Lagos Advantage: Lagos’s status as Nigeria’s economic center gives the Oba special power. Major projects require his approval. This influence creates business wealth.
4. Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi (Oni of Ife) – $70 Million
Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi has wealth of $70 million as current Oni of Ife. Born February 13, 1980, he’s one of Nigeria’s youngest first-class kings.
He was crowned in 2015 after Oba Okunade Sijuwade. He’s Chancellor of University of Nigeria, Nsukka, adding prestige to his wealth.
Wealth Portfolio:
- Luxury hotel ownership and management
- Resort developments across Nigeria
- Real estate investments in prime locations
- University chancellorship honorariums
- Political consulting and influence
- International business partnerships
Modern Approach: His youth brings modern business thinking to ancient kingdom. He invests like entrepreneur while maintaining royal dignity.
5. Oba Ewuare II (Oba of Benin) – $60 Million
Oba Ewuare II has wealth of $60 million as Oba of Benin. He was crowned in 2016. His kingdom’s historical importance enhances his business value.
The Oba received ₦100 million yearly during Igue festival from subjects giving tributes. This traditional revenue provides steady income.
Business Operations:
- Real estate developments in Benin
- Agricultural investments
- Tourism development projects
- Historical artifact management
- International cultural partnerships
- Hotel and hospitality ventures
Cultural Tourism: Benin’s historical importance attracts tourists worldwide. Tourism revenues benefit the kingdom. The Oba’s prestige increases business value.
6. Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe (Obi of Onitsha) – $50 Million
Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe has wealth of $50 million as Obi of Onitsha. Onitsha is the largest commercial city in Southeast Nigeria.
The Obi’s trading network spans West Africa. His business acumen matches his royal status.
Business Focus:
- Trading and import businesses
- Real estate investments
- Commercial property development
- Agricultural ventures
- International business partnerships
- Government contracts
Commercial Hub: Onitsha’s status as trading center benefits the Obi. Business people seek his blessing. This influence creates wealth.
7. Oba Lamidi Adeyemi (Alaafin of Oyo) – $40 Million
Oba Lamidi Adeyemi has wealth of $40 million as Alaafin of Oyo. He was Alaafin from 1971 until his death in 2022. His long reign accumulated significant wealth.
The Alaafin ruled one of Nigeria’s oldest kingdoms. His historical importance enhanced his business opportunities.
Wealth Sources:
- Real estate across Oyo State
- Agricultural lands and farming
- Traditional tributes and ceremonies
- Government allocations
- Business investments
- Charitable foundations
Kingdom Legacy: His foundations continue supporting Oyo. His investments create lasting impact on his kingdom’s development.
8. Oba Babatunde Aremu Akiolu (Oba of Lagos) – $40 Million
Oba Babatunde Aremu Akiolu has wealth of $40 million. Born October 23, 1943, he served as Oba of Lagos in his earlier years.
His tenure brought business opportunities through Lagos’s rapid development. His political connections remained valuable for investments.
Business Interests:
- Real estate investments in Lagos
- Political consulting work
- Business partnerships and networks
- Government contracts
- International business connections
Political Network: His experience in politics created lasting business networks. These connections generate continued business opportunities.
9. Godfrey Emiko (Olu of Warri) – $30 Million
Godfrey Emiko has wealth of $30 million as Olu of Warri. Warri’s oil-rich location benefits the Olu’s business ventures.
His kingdom’s oil wealth creates investment opportunities. Strategic partnerships with oil companies generate income.
Wealth Sources:
- Oil and gas industry connections
- Real estate in oil-rich region
- Trading businesses
- Government contracts
- International partnerships
- Traditional revenues
Oil Region Advantage: Warri’s oil importance positions the Olu advantageously. Oil companies seek his approval for operations. This influence creates wealth.
10. Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi I (Dein of Agbor) – $10 Million
Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi I has wealth of $10 million as Dein of Agbor. Though youngest on the list, he manages significant business interests.
His trading background helps him grow palace wealth. Smart investments create additional revenue streams.
Business Portfolio:
- Trading operations across Southeast
- Real estate investments
- Agricultural ventures
- Government connections
- Business partnerships
- Traditional revenues
How Nigerian Kings Build Wealth
The richest king in Nigeria uses multiple income sources:
Business Ventures:
- Oil and gas companies (35%)
- Real estate development (30%)
- Trading and importing (15%)
- Agricultural businesses (10%)
Traditional Sources:
- Festival tributes and gifts (15%)
- Government allocations (10%)
- Land ownership revenue (10%)
Strategic Positioning:
- Government contracts through connections (20%)
- International business partnerships (10%)
- Political consulting fees (8%)
Smart kings combine all sources. They diversify beyond traditional roles. Multiple income streams create lasting wealth.
What Makes Nigerian Kings Wealthy
Nigerian kings have unique advantages for wealth creation:
Land Ownership: Kings control vast lands in their kingdoms. Real estate development creates rapid wealth. Agricultural production generates steady income.
Government Connections: Kings advise governors and influence major policies. This creates business opportunities through government contracts and allocations.
Business Credibility: Royal status adds credibility to business ventures. Companies seek partnerships with kings. This business attraction creates wealth.
Festival Tributes: Wealthy subjects give lavishly during ceremonies. Festival season brings millions in gifts. These tributes provide significant income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oba Obateru Akinruntan (Olugbo of Ugbo) is the richest king in Nigeria with $300 million net worth. He’s founder of Obat Oil, one of Nigeria’s largest privately held oil companies. Forbes ranked him as Africa’s second-richest king.
Top Nigerian kings receive ₦50 million to ₦500 million yearly from various sources including government allocations, tributes, festival gifts, and business revenue. Oil-rich kings earn significantly more.
No, Nigerian kings focus on kingdom governance and business management. Their wealth comes from business ventures, land ownership, traditional revenues, and government positions—not regular employment.
Kings’ political influence and land control make them attractive business partners for government projects. State governments consult kings before major developments. This influence brings contract opportunities.
Yes, some qualified individuals refuse kingship due to business demands or personal preference. However, refusing often means losing wealth and status associated with the title.
King’s wealth passes to family members and kingdom foundations. Some wealth supports charitable causes. The crown typically goes to the next qualified family member.
Smart kings invest in real estate, diversify business interests, hire professional managers, and maintain government connections. This approach protects wealth across generations.
Conclusion: Nigeria’s Royal Business Empires
The richest king in Nigeria 2025 proves that traditional rulers can build modern empires. From Oba Obateru Akinruntan’s $300 million oil empire to other kings’ success, Nigerian monarchs show that tradition and business combine profitably.
Nigeria’s kings’ wealth comes from multiple sources. Oil companies, real estate development, government connections, and traditional tributes create substantial income.
The best kings understand modern business. They hire professional managers, diversify investments, and adapt to changing markets. This business sense creates lasting wealth.
Nigerian kings maintain cultural relevance while building modern empires. They balance spiritual leadership with entrepreneurial thinking. This combination benefits both their people and personal wealth.
As Nigeria develops, king’s roles evolve. New opportunities in technology and renewable energy create additional wealth sources for forward-thinking rulers.
The success stories of these Nigerian kings should inspire future leaders. With business sense, strategic thinking, and community service, anyone can build wealth while leading their people.
What roles should Nigerian kings play in modern governance? How can they balance tradition with business responsibilities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Discover more about Nigerian wealth and leadership:
- Top 10 Richest Men in Abia State 2025 and Their Net Worth
- Top 10 Richest Men in Benue State 2025 and Their Net Worth
External Resource: For comprehensive coverage of African royal families and traditional leadership wealth, visit Forbes Africa Billionaires List for updated rankings and royal insights.