Enugu State, popularly known as the “Coal City,” is more than just a historical coal-mining center. Over the decades, it has transformed into a thriving economic powerhouse in Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical zone. With a GDP of over $4 billion and growing investments in transport, education, energy, and real estate, Enugu has become home to a number of high-net-worth individuals. These billionaires have made their fortunes through strategic investments, political influence, and sheer entrepreneurial grit.
This blog post explores the top 10 richest men in Enugu State as of 2025—their industries, sources of income, estimated net worths, and the legacies they are building in the region.
1. Dr. Samuel Maduka Onyishi – Net Worth: Over $300 Million
Dr. Samuel Maduka Onyishi is not only the richest man in Enugu State but also one of the wealthiest transport moguls in Nigeria. He is the founder of Peace Mass Transit, a transportation company that started in 1994 with just two buses and has since grown into one of the largest mass transit fleets in West Africa with over 4,000 vehicles.
Apart from transport, Onyishi has made significant investments in education. He founded Samuel Maduka University in Enugu to promote academic excellence and entrepreneurship. He also sits on the board of major companies, including May & Baker Nigeria Plc. His philanthropic work, particularly in youth empowerment and scholarships, is widely recognized.
2. Senator Ike Ekweremadu – Net Worth: Over $210 Million
Senator Ike Ekweremadu served as the Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate for 12 years and was a long-standing senator representing Enugu West. A lawyer by profession, Ekweremadu diversified into real estate and private investments during and after his political career.
His real estate holdings in Abuja, Enugu, and overseas are valued in millions. Despite facing legal battles in recent years, Ekweremadu remains one of the wealthiest political figures from Enugu.
3. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah – Net Worth: Over $150 Million
Dr. Peter Mbah is the current Governor of Enugu State and a successful businessman. He is the founder of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Ltd, a major player in Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector. His company is known for developing innovative solutions in petroleum storage and logistics, including a multi-million-dollar tank farm at the Lekki Free Trade Zone.
Before entering full-time politics, he had a thriving law career and served as Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development in Enugu. His entrepreneurial journey has contributed greatly to his estimated net worth of over $150 million.
4. Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe – Net Worth: Over $100 Million
Chris Baywood Ibe, often called “Emperor,” is a business tycoon and philanthropist. He is the chairman of Baywood Continental Limited, a company that specializes in engineering, oil and gas services, and aviation.
Apart from business, Baywood Ibe is actively involved in politics and community development. His foundation has empowered thousands of youths through educational scholarships and skill acquisition programs. His diversified business interests place his net worth above $100 million.
5. Prince Emeka Mamah – Net Worth: Over $80 Million
Prince Emeka Mamah is the founder of Ifesinachi Transport Ltd, a household name in Nigeria's inter-state transport industry. He also owns Ifex Express, a logistics and courier service, and Destiny Microfinance Bank.
Mamah is not only a business magnate but also an influential political figure. His businesses span transportation, banking, and oil & gas. With an estimated net worth of $80 million, he remains a key player in Enugu’s private sector.
6. Chief Fidelis Okoro – Net Worth: Over $60 Million
Chief Fidelis C. Okoro is a seasoned politician and former senator representing Enugu North. He made his wealth through a mix of political service, real estate investments, and business consulting.
Chief Okoro’s influence in the political and business landscape of Enugu is still strong, and he is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and rural development.
7. Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani – Net Worth: Over $50 Million
Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani is a medical doctor and former governor of Enugu State (1999–2007). He also served as a senator representing Enugu East. His political career brought him national recognition, and his wealth grew from smart investments in healthcare, real estate, and public service contracts.
Nnamani founded the Ebeano political family, one of the most influential political groups in southeastern Nigeria. His net worth is estimated to be over $50 million.
8. Dr. Sullivan Chime – Net Worth: Over $40 Million
Dr. Sullivan Iheanacho Chime was governor of Enugu State from 2007 to 2015. A lawyer by profession, he transitioned from public service into private enterprise after his tenure. He has significant investments in real estate, legal consultancy, and security services.
His leadership is credited with infrastructural development in Enugu State, and he continues to influence business and politics in the region.
9. Prof. Bartholomew Nnaji – Net Worth: Over $35 Million
Prof. Barth Nnaji is a globally recognized engineer and founder of Geometric Power Ltd, Nigeria’s first indigenous power company. He also served as the Minister of Science and Technology and later as Minister of Power.
Nnaji’s firm is behind the Aba Integrated Power Project, a billion-naira power facility that promises constant electricity supply to industrial hubs in Abia and Enugu. His innovations in the energy sector have earned him both national acclaim and a fortune worth over $35 million.
10. Frank Nweke Jr. – Net Worth: Over $30 Million
Frank Nweke Jr. is a technocrat, entrepreneur, and politician. He was Nigeria’s Minister of Information and Communication and has worked with organizations like the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.
Nweke also has investments in media, technology startups, and consulting. He’s known for his articulate communication skills and continues to influence public discourse and policy in Nigeria. His estimated net worth is above $30 million.
Conclusion
Enugu State is not just rich in culture and history—it is home to some of the wealthiest and most influential men in Nigeria. These billionaires and multimillionaires have risen through transport, oil and gas, real estate, politics, and innovation. They are not only creating wealth for themselves but also shaping the future of Enugu by investing in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship.
As Enugu targets a $30 billion GDP in the coming years, the role of these top richest men will remain critical in driving sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
