Benue State Billionaires: Top 10 Richest Men In 2024

Benue State, often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” is one of Nigeria's leading agricultural states. While the state's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, several individuals have amassed significant wealth through various sectors, including politics, real estate, and business. This post will explore the top 10 richest men in Benue State as of 2024, with a focus on their business ventures and contributions to the state.

1. Dr. Samuel Ortom

Dr. Samuel Ortom is the immediate past governor of Benue State, having served two terms in office. Prior to his political career, Ortom was a successful businessman with interests in transportation, printing, and agriculture. His company, Oracle Business Limited, deals in farming, livestock, and more. His transition into politics only bolstered his wealth and influence in Benue State and beyond.

Business Ventures: Agriculture, Transportation, Real Estate
Net Worth: Estimated at billions of naira
Philanthropy: Ortom is involved in various philanthropic activities, focusing on health, education, and rural development in Benue State.

2. Senator George Akume

George Akume, a former governor of Benue State and a prominent politician, is one of the wealthiest individuals in the state. His wealth comes not only from his political career but also from his investments in real estate, agriculture, and other business ventures. Akume served as Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, further increasing his influence and wealth.

Business Ventures: Real Estate, Agriculture, Politics
Net Worth: Several billion naira
Philanthropy: Akume supports community development projects and frequently contributes to youth and education programs.

3. Terry Waya

Terry Waya is a flamboyant Nigerian businessman, renowned for his high-profile lifestyle and real estate investments both in Nigeria and abroad. Although he keeps a low public profile in Nigeria, his extensive real estate holdings and luxury properties, particularly in the United Kingdom, have made him one of the richest men in Benue State.

Business Ventures: Real Estate, Hospitality
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Waya is known for his private charitable work, often providing financial support to underprivileged families in Benue State.

4. Ordega Gbilekaa

Ordega Gbilekaa is a notable businessman and politician from Benue State. He has vast interests in real estate, construction, and agriculture. His real estate holdings have expanded over the years, making him a key figure in the state’s economic growth. Gbilekaa has also dabbled in politics, which has contributed to his wealth and influence.

Business Ventures: Real Estate, Construction, Agriculture
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Gbilekaa supports education and rural development, particularly in providing scholarships to students in Benue.

5. Gabriel Suswam

Gabriel Suswam is a former governor of Benue State and has served in various political capacities, including as a senator. Suswam is considered one of the wealthiest individuals in Benue, with investments in real estate, agriculture, and other sectors. His time in politics has opened up multiple business opportunities, which have contributed significantly to his wealth.

Business Ventures: Real Estate, Agriculture, Politics
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Suswam is involved in philanthropic activities, especially in education and healthcare development.

6. Chief Barnabas Gemade

Chief Barnabas Gemade is a respected politician and businessman. He has served as a senator representing Benue North-East and was also the former National Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Gemade’s wealth is primarily derived from his real estate holdings, investments in agriculture, and his long-standing political career.

Business Ventures: Real Estate, Agriculture, Politics
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Gemade is committed to rural development and frequently supports community healthcare and education projects.

7. Moses Ayom

Moses Ayom is a Nigerian businessman with interests in real estate and construction. As the founder of Granite and Marble Ltd, Ayom has built a thriving business in the building materials sector, providing granite and marble for major construction projects across Nigeria. His wealth is also tied to his investments in agriculture and hospitality.

Business Ventures: Real Estate, Construction, Agriculture
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Ayom contributes to community development in Benue, particularly in supporting infrastructure projects.

8. Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa

Chief Michael Aondoakaa, a former Attorney General of the Federation, is another wealthy individual from Benue State. Aondoakaa has used his legal expertise to establish a strong presence in the legal and real estate sectors. His wealth also stems from his political career and his investments in agriculture.

Business Ventures: Legal Services, Real Estate, Agriculture
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Aondoakaa is focused on legal education and empowerment programs for the youth in Benue.

9. Dr. Paul Unongo

Dr. Paul Unongo is a respected elder statesman and businessman from Benue State. His wealth is primarily tied to his investments in agriculture and real estate. Unongo has played a significant role in advocating for peace and development in the state and continues to wield considerable influence in both business and politics.

Business Ventures: Agriculture, Real Estate
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Unongo is known for his contributions to education and rural development in Benue.

10. Prince Ujah Gabriel

Prince Ujah Gabriel is a well-established businessman in the oil and gas sector, with a presence in real estate and agriculture. He has leveraged his business acumen to expand his empire in both the energy and construction sectors. Ujah’s wealth and influence make him one of the top business moguls in Benue State.

Business Ventures: Oil and Gas, Real Estate, Agriculture
Net Worth: Billions of naira
Philanthropy: Ujah is committed to developing rural infrastructure and frequently supports healthcare projects in the state.

Conclusion

Benue State is home to several wealthy individuals who have made their mark in various sectors, including politics, agriculture, real estate, and construction. These billionaires have not only built personal fortunes but also contributed to the development of Benue State through their investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Their success stories serve as inspiration for younger generations, highlighting the opportunities available in both business and politics within the state.

While agriculture remains the backbone of Benue’s economy, these individuals have diversified their wealth across multiple sectors, ensuring that their impact is felt not only in Nigeria but also internationally.