Kaduna State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, has been a key player in shaping the country’s political and economic destiny. With a population that blends tradition with modernity, the state has produced some of Nigeria’s most powerful and influential politicians. These individuals have served in various capacities—governors, senators, commissioners, lawmakers—and amassed enormous wealth through politics, business, and investments.
In this detailed post, we unveil the top 10 richest politicians in Kaduna State as of 2025, their estimated net worth, political journeys, and how they made their fortunes.
1. Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai – $400 Million
Nasir El-Rufai is not only one of the most influential politicians in Kaduna State but also one of the wealthiest in Nigeria. He gained national prominence as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2003 to 2007 during President Obasanjo’s administration, where he spearheaded major urban renewal projects in Abuja. His tenure as Governor of Kaduna State (2015–2023) further elevated his profile.
El-Rufai is known for his fierce intellect, policy reforms, and no-nonsense leadership. He has investments in real estate, consultancy, and various private businesses, both within and outside Nigeria. His consultancy firm has undertaken international projects, and his political career has also brought in significant perks and opportunities.
2. Uba Sani – $150 Million
Uba Sani, the current Governor of Kaduna State, is a former Senator who represented Kaduna Central. Before his political journey, he had a successful career in banking and finance. Uba Sani is a trained engineer and political strategist, known for his closeness to top political figures like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nasir El-Rufai.
Sani's wealth comes from a blend of public service and private business interests. He has stakes in financial institutions, real estate, and agro-allied industries. His political influence continues to grow, and so does his net worth.
3. Lawal Adamu Usman – $100 Million
Lawal Adamu Usman, popularly known as "Mr. LA," is the current Senator representing Kaduna Central. He is a grassroots politician with strong ties to the local population and a background in entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
Mr. LA made his wealth before entering mainstream politics, primarily through logistics, construction, and other commercial ventures. He is also known for funding educational and community development projects in Kaduna, boosting his popularity and influence in the region.
4. Suleiman Abdu Kwari – $80 Million
A financial expert and technocrat, Suleiman Abdu Kwari served as a Senator representing Kaduna North and previously held the position of Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance. With a solid reputation in fiscal management and public service, Kwari carved out a successful path in both politics and business.
His income sources include public sector contracts, financial consultancy, and investments in real estate and banking. Kwari remains an influential figure in Kaduna’s political and economic circles.
5. Isa Ashiru Kudan – $70 Million
Isa Ashiru Kudan is a seasoned political player who has contested for the governorship of Kaduna State multiple times under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He previously served in the House of Representatives and is respected for his political resilience.
His wealth is derived from long-standing business ventures in construction, oil and gas, and import-export services. Though he has not yet clinched the governorship, Ashiru remains a political heavyweight in Southern Kaduna.
6. Aminu Abdullahi Shagali – $60 Million
A former Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly (2015–2020), Aminu Shagali is one of the youngest and wealthiest politicians in the state. With a background in academia, he holds a Ph.D. and has authored books on politics and governance.
Shagali’s wealth comes from his investments in agriculture, particularly livestock and grain farming, as well as his political influence. His blend of intellectual leadership and business acumen places him firmly among the elites in Kaduna politics.
7. Usman Shehu Bawa – $50 Million
Usman Shehu Bawa, popularly known as "Shehu ABG," was a one-time member of the House of Representatives for Kaduna North Federal Constituency. Coming from a wealthy background, Bawa had business interests in telecommunications, especially during the GSM boom era in Nigeria.
Bawa is also a philanthropist and has significant stakes in ICT-related businesses. Although he has taken a break from active politics, his financial success remains notable.
8. Munira Suleiman Tanimu – $40 Million
Munira Suleiman Tanimu is one of the few prominent female politicians from Kaduna State. She serves in the Kaduna State House of Assembly and has built a reputation as a women’s rights advocate and entrepreneur.
Her net worth stems from her ventures in fashion, education, and food production. She also runs an NGO that supports youth and women empowerment. Her influence is rising both politically and economically in the state.
9. Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani – $35 Million
Yusuf Zailani is the current Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, a position he has held since 2020. He has been instrumental in shaping legislative policies and steering state laws.
Zailani has investments in construction and logistics, and his long stay in politics has allowed him to leverage opportunities within and beyond governance. His growing influence and wealth make him a key player in the state’s political arena.
10. Haruna Saeed – $30 Million
Haruna Saeed is a former Commissioner in Kaduna State and a senior member of the ruling political class. With experience in public service spanning over two decades, Saeed has held various portfolios in finance, urban development, and administration.
His wealth is tied to contracts, real estate development, and government consultancy. Though less visible in mainstream politics today, he remains a respected figure within policy and governance circles.
Summary Table: Top 10 Richest Politicians in Kaduna State (2025)
| Rank | Name | Estimated Net Worth | Political Positions Held | Primary Income Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai | $400 million | Former Governor of Kaduna, Ex-Minister of FCT | Real Estate, Consultancy, Politics |
| 2 | Uba Sani | $150 million | Current Governor of Kaduna, Former Senator | Banking, Politics |
| 3 | Lawal Adamu Usman | $100 million | Senator, Kaduna Central | Business, Philanthropy |
| 4 | Suleiman Abdu Kwari | $80 million | Ex-Senator, Ex-Commissioner of Finance | Finance, Governance |
| 5 | Isa Ashiru Kudan | $70 million | Former Rep Member, PDP Gubernatorial Candidate | Business, Politics |
| 6 | Aminu Abdullahi Shagali | $60 million | Former Speaker, Kaduna State House of Assembly | Agriculture, Politics |
| 7 | Usman Shehu Bawa | $50 million | Ex-Member, House of Representatives | Telecoms, Private Sector, Politics |
| 8 | Munira Suleiman Tanimu | $40 million | State Assembly Member | Entrepreneurship, Philanthropy |
| 9 | Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani | $35 million | Speaker, Kaduna State House of Assembly | Construction, Business |
| 10 | Haruna Saeed | $30 million | Former Commissioner in Kaduna State | Public Service, Business |
Conclusion
The political class in Kaduna State represents a blend of intellectuals, business moguls, and grassroots mobilizers. Their wealth is a product of strategic decision-making, diverse investments, and years of public service. These top 10 richest politicians exemplify the intersection of influence, power, and financial prosperity.
As Nigeria continues to evolve politically and economically, these individuals are not only shaping the future of Kaduna State but are also major stakeholders in the country’s direction.
