Niger State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central geopolitical zone, is the largest state in the country by land area. Known for its rich cultural diversity and natural resources, Niger has also been home to influential political leaders whose impact transcends state boundaries. Over the years, politics in Niger State has become intertwined with wealth, with several public figures amassing significant fortunes through a blend of governance, business ventures, real estate, agriculture, media, and strategic partnerships.
In this blog post, we take a deep dive into the top 10 richest politicians in Niger State as of 2025, revealing their estimated net worth, professional journey, investments, and how they leveraged political power to accumulate wealth. This list does not only highlight financial success but also sheds light on the roles these individuals have played in shaping the state’s political and economic landscape.
1. Abubakar Sani Bello – Estimated Net Worth: $700 Million
Abubakar Sani Bello, fondly called “Lolo,” is the former Governor of Niger State who served two terms from 2015 to 2023. Born into affluence, his father, Colonel Sani Bello, was a former military governor of Kano State and a prominent businessman. Abubakar inherited significant wealth but also made his mark as a skilled administrator and investor.
Aside from politics, he has a strong presence in the oil and gas sector, telecommunications, and real estate. His political influence and family background significantly contributed to his immense wealth, making him the richest politician in the state.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Inherited family business empire
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Oil and gas
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Real estate
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Political influence and networks
2. Mohammed Umar Bago – Estimated Net Worth: $600 Million
Mohammed Umar Bago is the current Governor of Niger State, assuming office in May 2023 after a successful career as a federal legislator representing Chanchaga Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Before joining politics, Bago built a solid career in the banking sector, working with institutions like Ecobank and FCMB.
His wealth stems from strategic investments in agriculture, real estate, logistics, and finance. As governor, his influence has expanded, positioning him as one of the most financially successful politicians in the state.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Banking and finance
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Agriculture and logistics
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Political leadership
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Real estate investments
3. Mohammed Sani Musa – Estimated Net Worth: $500 Million
Senator Mohammed Sani Musa represents Niger East Senatorial District. He gained national recognition when he introduced the INEC card reader during the 2015 general elections through his company, Activate Technologies. The deal with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) became a financial milestone.
Senator Musa is also involved in several businesses including construction, ICT, and procurement. His business acumen combined with political influence makes him one of Niger’s wealthiest political figures.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Technology and ICT (Activate Technologies)
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Construction
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Legislative activities
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Public contracts
4. Mohammed Idris Malagi – Estimated Net Worth: $400 Million
Currently Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi is a respected figure in journalism and public relations. He is the founder and publisher of Blueprint Newspaper and owns an array of media and communication companies.
Aside from media, Malagi has investments in education, printing, logistics, and real estate. His ministerial appointment and business interests have elevated his net worth significantly in recent years.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Media and communications
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Public relations consultancy
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Real estate
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Government appointments
5. Muhammad Bima Enagi – Estimated Net Worth: $300 Million
A former Senator representing Niger South Senatorial District (2019–2023), Muhammad Bima Enagi is a professional quantity surveyor and businessman. He worked with the Central Bank of Nigeria before venturing into business, focusing on agriculture, construction, and oil and gas.
Bima Enagi’s wealth is the result of his diverse professional background and political engagements. He is known for owning large tracts of farmland and several businesses across Nigeria.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Construction and infrastructure
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Large-scale farming
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Oil and gas
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Legislative earnings
6. Ahmed Mohammed Marafa – Estimated Net Worth: $200 Million
Ahmed Marafa served as the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly between 2015 and 2019. His deep involvement in state politics gave him access to economic opportunities that he turned into business ventures.
Marafa has investments in agriculture, property development, and trade. His political roles allowed him to build strong networks that facilitated his financial growth.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Politics
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Property and real estate
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Agricultural investments
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Government contracts
7. Ibrahim Egbo – Estimated Net Worth: $150 Million
Ibrahim Egbo is a politician and former member of the House of Representatives. Known for his financial intelligence and legislative skills, Egbo has built a strong network in both private and public sectors.
He has interests in construction, transportation, and consultancy services. His businesses operate mainly in Northern Nigeria and benefit from his influence in political circles.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Construction
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Transportation and logistics
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Political consultancy
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Real estate
8. Isah Liman Kantigi – Estimated Net Worth: $120 Million
Isah Liman Kantigi is a businessman turned politician who gained popularity for contesting in multiple governorship primaries. Though he has not won a major election, he is well-known in Niger State for his wealth and political philanthropy.
Kantigi is heavily invested in the oil and gas sector and owns several petrol stations and storage depots. He also has farmland and properties spread across the North.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Oil and gas (retail and storage)
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Real estate and agriculture
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Political fundraising and donations
9. Zainab Kure – Estimated Net Worth: $100 Million
Zainab Kure, wife of the late Governor Abdulkadir Kure, is a former Senator who represented Niger South. She is also known for her work in women’s empowerment and philanthropy.
She has investments in education, health care, and community development initiatives. Her political background and influence in policy development have positioned her as one of Niger’s wealthiest female politicians.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Politics
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Non-governmental organizations
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Education and health sector investments
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Real estate
10. Mustapha Bello – Estimated Net Worth: $80 Million
Mustapha Bello served as Nigeria’s Minister of Commerce and Industry under President Obasanjo and has since remained active in business and policy advisory roles.
He is known for his investments in manufacturing and agricultural processing plants. Bello’s wealth is largely attributed to his role in driving industrial policies and leveraging partnerships with local and international investors.
Major Wealth Sources:
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Manufacturing and industry
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Agricultural processing
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Government appointments
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Public-private partnerships
📊 Summary Table: Top 10 Richest Politicians in Niger State (2025)
Rank | Name | Net Worth ($ Million) | Major Political Role | Key Wealth Sources |
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1 | Abubakar Sani Bello | 700 | Former Governor, Senator | Family wealth, Oil & gas, Real estate |
2 | Mohammed Umar Bago | 600 | Current Governor | Banking, Agriculture, Logistics |
3 | Mohammed Sani Musa | 500 | Senator | Technology, Contracts, Politics |
4 | Mohammed Idris Malagi | 400 | Minister of Information | Media, PR, Real estate |
5 | Muhammad Bima Enagi | 300 | Former Senator | Construction, Farming, Oil and gas |
6 | Ahmed Mohammed Marafa | 200 | Ex-Speaker, State Assembly | Agriculture, Real estate, Contracts |
7 | Ibrahim Egbo | 150 | Ex-House of Reps | Construction, Transport, Politics |
8 | Isah Liman Kantigi | 120 | Politician, Businessman | Oil & gas, Agriculture, Real estate |
9 | Zainab Kure | 100 | Former Senator | Education, Health, Philanthropy |
10 | Mustapha Bello | 80 | Ex-Minister of Commerce and Industry | Manufacturing, Policy, Public-Private deals |
Conclusion
The wealth amassed by these ten politicians in Niger State is a reflection of how political influence can merge with business to create powerful legacies. Whether through public service, private enterprise, or strategic investments, these individuals have positioned themselves as key players in the socio-economic landscape of not just Niger State, but Nigeria as a whole.
Their stories reflect a broader pattern across the nation, where access to political power often serves as a springboard for financial expansion. As Nigeria moves toward greater transparency and economic diversification, the influence of these political elites will continue to shape the path forward for Niger State.