The Yoruba people, one of the largest ethnic groups in West Africa, are known for their deep-rooted cultural heritage, strong traditional institutions, and powerful monarchs. In modern times, many Yoruba kings are not only revered custodians of tradition but also wealthy individuals with substantial influence in business, politics, and society.
This article explores the richest Yoruba kings in 2025, highlighting their net worth, biographical details, and business investments.
Top 7 Richest Kings in Yoruba Land (2025)
|
Rank |
Name |
Title |
Estimated Net Worth |
Notable Investments & Roles |
|
1 |
Oba Fredrick Akinruntan |
Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom |
$300 million |
Oil magnate; founder of Obat Oil, one of Nigeria’s largest oil firms. |
|
2 |
Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi |
Ooni of Ife |
$100 million |
Real estate, hospitality, and multiple pan-African investments. |
|
3 |
Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi |
Elegushi of Ikate Land |
$40 million |
Real estate, hospitality, and political connections. |
|
4 |
Oba Rilwan Akiolu |
Oba of Lagos |
$35 million |
Real estate and influence in Lagos’ urban economy. |
|
5 |
Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III (late) |
Alaafin of Oyo (until 2022) |
$25 million |
His legacy includes investments and extensive royal influence. |
|
6 |
Oba Adedotun Gbadebo |
Alake of Egbaland |
$20 million |
Investments in agriculture and former career in the Nigerian Army. |
|
7 |
Oba Adekunle Aromolaran |
Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland |
$10 million |
Regional influence and traditional wealth holdings. |
Brief Bios & Career Highlights
1. Oba Fredrick Akinruntan – Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom
- Net Worth: $300 million
- A business mogul and oil tycoon, he is the founder of Obat Oil, one of Nigeria’s largest privately-held oil companies. Known for his lavish lifestyle, he once owned the most expensive car driven by a monarch in Africa.
2. Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi – Ooni of Ife
- Net Worth: $100 million
- A modern monarch with strong interest in youth empowerment, tech, and real estate. Prior to ascending the throne, he was a real estate developer. As Ooni, he has initiated partnerships across Africa.
3. Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi – Elegushi of Ikate Land
- Net Worth: $40 million
- Young, stylish, and wealthy. Oba Elegushi has significant business interests in hospitality, real estate, and is a frequent figure in high-society circles. He’s also politically connected.
4. Oba Rilwan Akiolu – Oba of Lagos
- Net Worth: $35 million
- A former Assistant Inspector General of Police, Oba Akiolu has been on the throne since 2003. He has vast influence in Lagos politics and urban affairs.
5. Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III – Alaafin of Oyo (Late)
- Net Worth: $25 million
- Though he passed away in 2022, his legacy remains immense. He was deeply involved in cultural preservation and had traditional wealth in land and royal holdings.
6. Oba Adedotun Gbadebo – Alake of Egbaland
- Net Worth: $20 million
- A respected monarch with experience in the military and business. He has promoted development in Ogun State and invested in agriculture and education.
7. Oba Adekunle Aromolaran – Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland
- Net Worth: $10 million
- Known for cultural promotion and local empowerment. His wealth is tied to ancestral holdings and regional influence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
|
Question |
Answer |
|
Who is the richest Yoruba king in 2025? |
Oba Fredrick Akinruntan, Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, with a net worth of $300 million. |
|
Do Yoruba kings have business investments? |
Yes, many monarchs invest in oil, real estate, agriculture, and hospitality. |
|
Are Yoruba kings politically influential? |
Absolutely. Many wield significant power and influence over local and national affairs. |
|
What is the role of a Yoruba king today? |
Beyond tradition, they promote development, investment, and cultural heritage. |
Conclusion
The Yoruba kings listed here are more than custodians of culture—they are powerful figures blending tradition with modern influence. Through strategic investments and social capital, they have built legacies that go beyond their thrones. In 2025, these monarchs remain icons of wealth, tradition, and leadership in Nigeria and beyond.
