Taraba State Billionaires: Top 10 Richest Men

Taraba State, located in the northeastern region of Nigeria, is home to a number of highly successful individuals, many of whom have amassed their fortunes through politics, business, and strategic investments. This region, rich in agricultural land and natural resources, has produced a diverse range of wealthy individuals who have contributed significantly to both state and national development. Below is a detailed look at the top 10 richest men in Taraba State.

1. General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (Net Worth: $750 Million)

General Theophilus Yakubu (TY) Danjuma is not only the richest man in Taraba State but also one of the wealthiest individuals in Nigeria. A former Chief of Army Staff and Minister of Defense, Danjuma transitioned from the military to become a major player in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. He is the founder of South Atlantic Petroleum, a company with oil exploration interests across Nigeria and other African countries, including Benin and Madagascar. Danjuma’s wealth extends beyond oil, with investments in shipping, real estate, and agriculture. His estimated net worth of $750 million makes him an influential figure in Nigeria's business landscape​.

2. Rev. Jolly Nyame (Net Worth: $650 Million)

Jolly Nyame is a former governor of Taraba State, serving from 1999 to 2007. His wealth is attributed to his extensive real estate investments both in Taraba State and across Nigeria. Although he faced legal battles related to corruption charges during his time in office, Nyame remains one of the richest men in Taraba, with an estimated net worth of $650 million. His influence extends beyond politics, as he has also ventured into business sectors such as agriculture​.

3. Alhaji Sani Abubakar Danladi (Net Worth: $550 Million)

Alhaji Sani Abubakar Danladi is a prominent businessman and politician who has held various high-profile roles, including Deputy Governor and Senator of Taraba State. His wealth stems from his diverse investments in oil and gas, real estate, and hospitality. With a net worth of approximately $550 million, Danladi remains a key figure in Taraba State’s economic and political environment​.

4. Murtala Abdullahi Ishaku (Net Worth: $500 Million)

Murtala Abdullahi Ishaku is a notable entrepreneur whose wealth primarily comes from oil and gas exploration. With investments stretching beyond Nigeria, Ishaku’s business ventures contribute to his considerable net worth of $500 million. He plays a significant role in Taraba’s economic landscape, influencing various sectors including energy and infrastructure​.

5. Bala James Nggilari (Net Worth: $420 Million)

Although Bala James Nggilari is more closely associated with Adamawa State, his deep business and political ties to Taraba make him one of its wealthiest men. A former governor of Adamawa State, Nggilari’s business interests span oil and gas, real estate, and agriculture, with an estimated net worth of $420 million. His contributions to Taraba’s economy, particularly in the agricultural sector, are notable​.

6. Chief David Sabo Kente (Net Worth: $300 Million)

Chief David Sabo Kente, also known as "Kente," is a businessman and philanthropist with significant investments in various sectors such as real estate, agriculture, and oil and gas. He is the founder of DSK Group, which operates across several industries. Kente's philanthropic efforts, particularly through his foundation, have impacted numerous lives in Taraba, and his net worth of $300 million underscores his standing as one of the state's wealthiest individuals​.

7. Chief Emmanuel B.B. Ishaku (Net Worth: $250 Million)

Chief Emmanuel B.B. Ishaku is a leading entrepreneur in Taraba State, primarily known for his ventures in agriculture. His agro-based businesses have contributed to the creation of jobs and the overall economic development of the state. Ishaku’s strategic investments in agricultural production and processing have earned him a spot on the list of the richest men in Taraba, with a net worth of $250 million​.

8. Chief Julius Kai (Net Worth: $200 Million)

Chief Julius Kai is a well-known businessman in the transportation sector. His ventures extend to real estate and hospitality, making him one of the most prominent business figures in Taraba State. His estimated net worth of $200 million highlights his success and contribution to the state’s economy​.

9. Chief Johnson O. Onu (Net Worth: $180 Million)

Chief Johnson O. Onu has built his wealth through the manufacturing sector. His company is involved in industries such as textiles and plastics, and his business activities have helped boost Taraba State’s industrial output. Onu’s estimated net worth of $180 million reflects his significant influence in the state’s manufacturing landscape​.

10. Alhaji Bashir Marafa (Net Worth: $150 Million)

Alhaji Bashir Marafa rounds out the list of Taraba State’s richest men with an estimated net worth of $150 million. Marafa has substantial investments in oil and gas, real estate, and telecommunications. His diversified portfolio has made him a key player in several industries both within and outside Taraba State​.

Conclusion

Taraba State's wealthiest individuals are a mix of seasoned politicians and visionary entrepreneurs, each contributing to the state's economic and social development. The state's rich natural resources, particularly in agriculture and mineral deposits, have provided a fertile ground for wealth creation. From TY Danjuma’s oil empire to the diverse business interests of individuals like Chief David Sabo Kente and Murtala Ishaku, these men represent the entrepreneurial spirit and economic potential of Taraba State.