Katsina State, situated in the northwestern part of Nigeria, has long been a powerhouse in the country’s political and administrative history. It is not just the home of prominent national leaders but also a breeding ground for influential politicians whose impacts reach beyond the borders of the state. Over the years, these political figures have not only made waves in governance but have also accumulated substantial wealth from various sources—ranging from politics and public service to business ventures and family legacies.
In this blog post, we take a detailed look at the top 10 richest politicians in Katsina State in 2025. From past presidents to current senators and prominent public servants, these individuals have combined power and wealth in ways that have influenced both Katsina’s political development and Nigeria at large.
1. Muhammadu Buhari – Estimated Net Worth: $20 Million
Muhammadu Buhari is undoubtedly the most recognized political figure from Katsina State. Born in Daura, Buhari served as a former Head of State during Nigeria’s military era and later as the democratically elected President of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023. His return to democratic politics earned him global respect, especially for his strong anti-corruption rhetoric and populist policies.
Despite claims of modesty, Buhari’s financial standing remains strong. His assets are mostly tied to agriculture—he owns a large farm in Daura—as well as investments in livestock, real estate, and pension benefits from his military and civil service. His estimated net worth stands at around $20 million.
2. Ibrahim Shehu Shema – Estimated Net Worth: $15 Million
Ibrahim Shema, who served as Governor of Katsina State from 2007 to 2015, is another political heavyweight from the state. A trained lawyer and former Deputy National Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Shema was known for his people-focused projects, such as road construction, educational programs, and rural development during his administration.
Beyond politics, Shema has earned wealth through legal practice, property investments, and consulting. By 2025, his net worth is estimated at $15 million, placing him firmly among the richest politicians in the state.
3. Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua – Estimated Net Worth: $12 Million
Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua is a name that resonates due to his lineage. He is the younger brother of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. A retired Army lieutenant colonel, Abdulaziz entered the political space formally when he became the Senator representing Katsina Central in 2023.
Thanks to his military pension, political office earnings, and inherited wealth, Yar’Adua has seen a steady rise in his financial portfolio. His estimated net worth in 2025 is $12 million.
4. Ahmed Sani Stores – Estimated Net Worth: $10 Million
Ahmed Sani Stores is a renowned businessman turned politician. He is well known in Katsina for his thriving retail business, real estate assets, and philanthropic initiatives. Over the years, he has participated in several political campaigns and has served in advisory roles in state governance.
Sani Stores has built his fortune through smart investments in retail distribution, property development, and agricultural projects. His estimated wealth stands at around $10 million as of 2025.
5. Musa Mohammed Sada – Estimated Net Worth: $8 Million
Musa Mohammed Sada, an architect by profession, made his mark in politics when he served as Nigeria’s Minister of Mines and Steel Development during the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan. Prior to his ministerial appointment, he was the Commissioner for Works in Katsina State.
Sada’s wealth comes from a combination of professional practice, political appointments, and consultancy work in construction and mining industries. His estimated net worth is $8 million.
6. Yakubu Musa Katsina – Estimated Net Worth: $7 Million
Yakubu Musa Katsina is one of the quiet but influential politicians and businessmen from Katsina. Known for his role in infrastructural development, he has participated in several major construction projects across the state. His connections in political circles have also enabled him to win multiple government contracts over the years.
His wealth stems from construction, real estate, and political consultations. In 2025, his net worth is estimated at $7 million.
7. Aliyu Musa – Estimated Net Worth: $6 Million
Aliyu Musa has been a long-standing figure in Nigerian politics, with his career beginning in the late 1990s. He was elected into the Katsina State House of Assembly in 1999 and later served in the House of Representatives. His academic background in political science and history has aided his strategic rise within political circles.
Aliyu’s wealth is primarily sourced from political appointments, government contracts, and investments in media and publishing. His net worth is approximately $6 million in 2025.
8. Mamman Nasir (Late) – Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
Mamman Nasir, although deceased, deserves mention for his legacy. A highly respected jurist and President of the Nigerian Court of Appeal, he was a significant influence in both legal and political fields. He also served as the Galadima of Katsina.
His wealth, largely inherited by his family, came from his legal career, ancestral estates, and high-ranking roles in both traditional and modern Nigerian institutions. Before his death, his net worth was about $5 million, and his family continues to maintain his legacy.
9. Mohammed Lawal Rafindadi – Estimated Net Worth: $4 Million
Mohammed Lawal Rafindadi is best known for his role as the Director-General of the Nigerian Security Organization (NSO), the predecessor to the Department of State Services (DSS), under the Buhari military regime. Though not a frontline politician, his involvement in national security and intelligence gave him influence and access to resources.
Rafindadi’s wealth includes government gratuities, real estate, and consulting services in national security. His net worth is estimated at $4 million.
10. Sani Dauda – Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million
Sani Dauda is a lesser-known figure outside Katsina but is well respected within the business and political communities of the state. He has served in advisory positions in local government and is known for his successful ventures in agriculture and transportation.
Dauda’s wealth comes from owning agricultural estates and transportation fleets, making his estimated net worth around $3 million in 2025.
Summary Table: Top 10 Richest Politicians in Katsina State (2025)
| Rank | Name | Estimated Net Worth | Notable Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Muhammadu Buhari | $20 Million | Former President of Nigeria |
| 2 | Ibrahim Shema | $15 Million | Former Governor of Katsina State |
| 3 | Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua | $12 Million | Senator, Retired Army Officer |
| 4 | Ahmed Sani Stores | $10 Million | Businessman, Political Advisor |
| 5 | Musa Mohammed Sada | $8 Million | Ex-Minister, Architect |
| 6 | Yakubu Musa Katsina | $7 Million | Construction Magnate, Politician |
| 7 | Aliyu Musa | $6 Million | Ex-House of Reps Member |
| 8 | Mamman Nasir (Late) | $5 Million | Former Court of Appeal President, Traditional Ruler |
| 9 | Mohammed Lawal Rafindadi | $4 Million | Former NSO Director-General |
| 10 | Sani Dauda | $3 Million | Agriculturist, Transport Entrepreneur |
Final Thoughts
Katsina State has produced some of Nigeria’s most powerful and wealthy political figures. Their influence in Nigerian politics is not just because of their positions but also because of their economic power. From Buhari’s global recognition to local business tycoons like Ahmed Sani Stores, these politicians reflect the interconnection between politics, business, and traditional power structures in northern Nigeria.
Their combined wealth represents not only personal success but also speaks to the immense political and economic potential of Katsina State. As the political scene in Nigeria continues to evolve, these individuals—and others coming behind them—will likely continue to play critical roles in shaping the future of both their state and the nation.
