The Top 10 Richest Men In Edo State 2025 And Their Net Worth shows the most successful rich men from the historic “Heartbeat of the Nation.” Gabriel Igbinedion tops this list with $1 billion. This makes him the richest man in Edo State and one of Southern Nigeria’s wealthiest businessmen.
Edo State is located in southern Nigeria with Benin City as its capital. The state is known as the heartland of the ancient Benin Kingdom, famous for its rich cultural heritage and bronze works. Edo is Nigeria’s fourth richest state by GDP. These rich people have made their money through real estate, education, payment technology, religion, politics, and construction.
Quick Summary: Top 10 Richest Men in Edo State 2025
- Gabriel Igbinedion – $1 billion (Real Estate, Education, Media)
- Lucky Igbinedion – $600 million (Politics, Real Estate, Hospitality)
- Mitchell Elegbe – $450 million (Fintech, Payment Technology)
- Adams Oshiomhole – $420 million (Politics, Real Estate, Labour)
- Godwin Obaseki – $225 million (Finance, Banking, Politics)
- Pastor Chris Oyakhilome – $250 million (Religion, Media, Real Estate)
- Apostle Johnson Suleman – $200 million (Religion, Media, Real Estate)
- Raymond Dokpesi – $150 million (Media, Broadcasting, Real Estate)
- Oba Ewuare II – $120 million (Royalty, Traditional Ruler)
- Solomon Akiyemi – $100 million (Finance, Investment Management)
How We Ranked Edo State’s Richest Men
Our ranking looks at many factors. These include business holdings, real estate investments, educational institutions, religious enterprises, and proven assets. We used criteria like businesses, investments, assets and personal property to judge the net worth of these rich people from Edo state.
1. Gabriel Igbinedion – $1 Billion
Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion is the richest man in Edo State with a net worth of $1 billion. He holds the prestigious title of Esama of Benin Kingdom. Born on September 11, 1934, in Okada town, Edo State, he is a renowned philanthropist and businessman with diverse interests in education, media, real estate, and hospitality.
Key Wins:
- Esama of Benin Kingdom (traditional title)
- Founder of Igbinedion University Okada (Nigeria’s first private university)
- Owner of defunct Okada Air (once Nigeria’s largest airline)
- Major real estate developer
Major Business Deals:
- Igbinedion University Okada (founded 1999)
- Okada Air (defunct but was major airline)
- Real estate development across Nigeria
- Independent Radio and Television
- Oil and gas sector holdings
Properties & Assets:
- Garden of Eden mansion (palatial display of luxury)
- Igbinedion University campus and facilities
- Extensive real estate across Benin City
- Private television and radio station
- Media company holdings
2025 Highlights: Chief Igbinedion is from Okada town in Edo State. His entrepreneurial journey spans decades. His influence extends beyond business into the cultural and traditional affairs of the Benin Kingdom. He is highly regarded and respected in Edo State and Nigeria at large.
2. Lucky Igbinedion – $600 Million
Chief Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion is a former Governor of Edo State with a net worth of $600 million. Born on May 13, 1957, in Benin City, Edo State, he served as governor from 1999 to 2007. He is the son of Gabriel Igbinedion (Esama of Benin) and has business interests in real estate, agriculture, and hospitality.
Key Wins:
- Former two-term Governor of Edo State (1999-2007)
- Mayor of Oredo Municipality (1987-1989)
- Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (2006)
- Real estate mogul
Major Business Deals:
- Real estate development across Nigeria
- Tourism resort developments
- Hospitality investments (hotels)
- Agricultural ventures
- Property development
Properties & Assets:
- Real estate in Edo, Abuja, and Lagos
- Hotel properties
- Agricultural estates
- Luxury vehicles and homes
- Government pensions and benefits
2025 Highlights: Despite facing various controversies and legal battles over the years, his wealth and influence remain substantial. His business interests include real estate, hospitality, and agricultural ventures.
3. Mitchell Elegbe – $450 Million
Mitchell Elegbe is from Edo State with a net worth of $450 million. He is the founder and CEO of Interswitch, a multi-billion dollar payment infrastructure company in Africa. He is one of the few most successful entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
Key Wins:
- Founder and CEO of Interswitch
- Revolutionized electronic payments in Nigeria
- Graduate of University of Benin
- Multiple awards for innovation
Major Business Deals:
- Interswitch payment gateway operations
- Verve card (indigenous payment card)
- Financial technology innovations
- Strategic partnerships with banks
- International expansion
Properties & Assets:
- Interswitch corporate facilities
- Payment infrastructure nationwide
- Technology patents and systems
- Real estate holdings
- Investment portfolios
2025 Highlights: Through Interswitch, transactions have been fully automated. He developed a payment system that makes electronic payment easy in Nigeria. He has received various awards for his acts across Africa.
4. Adams Oshiomhole – $420 Million
Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole is a former Governor of Edo State and former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Born on April 4, 1952, in Iyamho, Etsako West LGA, Edo State, he rose to prominence through his leadership in the Nigerian labor movement.
Key Wins:
- Two-term Governor of Edo State (2008-2016)
- Former National Chairman of APC
- Former President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) (1999-2007)
- Current Senator representing Edo North
Major Business Deals:
- Real estate investments across Nigeria
- Political consulting and advisory
- Property development
- Construction contracts
- Agricultural ventures
Properties & Assets:
- Real estate in Edo, Abuja, and Lagos
- Political investment assets
- Luxury properties and vehicles
- Agricultural estates
- Government pensions and benefits
2025 Highlights: With decades in labor movement and politics, Oshiomhole has built substantial wealth. His net worth of $420 million reflects his successful political career and smart business investments.
5. Godwin Obaseki – $225 Million
Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki is the immediate past Governor of Edo State with a net worth of $225 million. Born on July 1, 1957, in Benin City, Edo State, he served as governor from 2016 to 2024. He holds a degree in classical art from University of Ibadan.
Key Wins:
- Former two-term Governor of Edo State (2016-2024)
- Background in finance and investment banking
- Economic and financial management expert
- Private sector experience before politics
Major Business Deals:
- Investment banking and financial services
- Real estate development projects
- Economic consulting
- Property investments
- Agricultural ventures
Properties & Assets:
- Real estate in Edo State and Abuja
- Banking sector investments
- Commercial properties
- Luxury vehicles and homes
- Government pensions
2025 Highlights: Obaseki’s background in finance and business before politics underpins his significant wealth. His business foundation adds financial stability to his political role.
6. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome – $250 Million
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is the founder and president of LoveWorld Incorporated, also known as Christ Embassy. Born on December 7, 1963, in Edo State, he is one of Nigeria’s most influential religious leaders. His ministry has grown into a global phenomenon with millions of followers worldwide.
Key Wins:
- Founder of Christ Embassy (LoveWorld Incorporated)
- Global religious empire with millions of followers
- Media mogul (LoveWorld Networks)
- Healing crusades and conferences
Major Business Deals:
- Christ Embassy churches worldwide
- LoveWorld Networks (satellite TV stations)
- Publishing and media productions
- Real estate investments
- Educational institutions
Properties & Assets:
- Church facilities across Nigeria and worldwide
- Broadcasting equipment and studios
- Real estate holdings
- Publishing houses
- Educational facilities
2025 Highlights: Pastor Chris has investments in media and real estate. His church is among the richest churches in Nigeria with congregation numbering more than a million members worldwide. His net worth is estimated at $250 million.
7. Apostle Johnson Suleman – $200 Million
Apostle Johnson Suleman is the founder and president of Omega Fire Ministry (OFM) Worldwide. Born in Edo State, he is one of the richest pastors in Nigeria with a net worth of $200 million. His ministry headquarters is in Auchi, Edo State.
Key Wins:
- Founder of Omega Fire Ministry (OFM)
- Headquarters in Auchi, Edo State
- International ministry with branches worldwide
- Television evangelist
Major Business Deals:
- Omega Fire Ministry operations
- Media and broadcasting (OFM TV)
- Real estate investments
- Educational institutions
- Publishing and media production
Properties & Assets:
- Church facilities across Nigeria
- Broadcasting studios and equipment
- Real estate holdings
- Schools and educational facilities
- Luxury vehicles
2025 Highlights: Apostle Suleman is one of the most popular pastors in Nigeria. His church has grown significantly with branches across Nigeria and internationally. His ministry generates substantial revenue through offerings, tithes, and media.
8. Raymond Dokpesi – $150 Million
Chief Raymond Anthony Aleogho Dokpesi is a wealthy public figure from Edo State. Born in March 1951 in Agenebode, Edo State, he has a net worth of $150 million. He owns a well-known media company in the country.
Key Wins:
- Founder of DAAR Communications
- Owner of Africa Independent Television (AIT)
- Owner of RayPower FM
- Media mogul
Major Business Deals:
- DAAR Communications operations
- Africa Independent Television (AIT)
- RayPower FM radio network
- Real estate investments
- Political consulting
Properties & Assets:
- Broadcasting facilities and equipment
- Media production studios
- Real estate holdings
- Luxury properties
- Political investment assets
2025 Highlights: His media business, DAAR Communications, founded Africa Independent Television (AIT), a well-known Nigerian TV channel. He has further investments that contribute to his wealth.
9. Oba Ewuare II – $120 Million
His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, is the Oba of Benin and one of Nigeria’s most respected traditional rulers. He ascended the throne in 2016. As the custodian of the Benin Kingdom, his net worth is estimated at $120 million.
Key Wins:
- Oba (King) of Benin Kingdom
- One of Nigeria’s first-class traditional rulers
- Custodian of Benin cultural heritage
- Former Ambassador to various countries
Major Business Deals:
- Royal traditional authority assets
- Land and property holdings in Benin Kingdom
- Cultural tourism investments
- Traditional festivals and ceremonies
- Royal business ventures
Properties & Assets:
- Benin Royal Palace
- Extensive land holdings in Benin Kingdom
- Traditional artifacts and treasures
- Royal estates and properties
- Cultural heritage assets
2025 Highlights: The Oba annually receives over N100 million in cash gifts during the famous Igue festival. He is from a very rich royal family and oversees the Benin Kingdom’s vast traditional and economic resources.
10. Solomon Akiyemi – $100 Million
Solomon Akiyemi is an Edo-born entrepreneur with interests in finance and investment. His net worth stands at $100 million. He is the founder of Akiyemi & Co., Ltd., specializing in investment management and financial advisory.
Key Wins:
- Founder of Akiyemi & Co., Ltd.
- Investment management expert
- Financial advisory services
- Wealth management consultant
Major Business Deals:
- Akiyemi & Co., Ltd. operations
- Investment management and financial advisory
- Wealth management services
- Real estate investments
- Corporate consultancy
Properties & Assets:
- Financial services company facilities
- Real estate holdings
- Investment portfolios
- Luxury properties
- Business assets
2025 Highlights: His firm is a significant player in the financial sector, catering to individuals and businesses across Nigeria. He provides wealth management and consultancy services to top clients.
Wealth Distribution Trends in Edo State
The Top 10 Richest Men In Edo State 2025 And Their Net Worth reveals interesting patterns about wealth creation in the region. Edo State is the heartland of the ancient Benin Kingdom with a rich cultural heritage. The state ranks as Nigeria’s fourth richest by GDP.
Key Observations:
- Real estate dominates wealth creation
- Education sector investments are growing
- Fintech and payment technology are emerging
- Religion generates significant wealth
- Politics remains a major pathway to riches
The combined wealth of these ten people exceeds $3.5 billion. This shows the massive economic potential within Edo State, with opportunities across diverse sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gabriel Igbinedion is the richest man in Edo State with a net worth of $1 billion. The Esama of Benin Kingdom founded Igbinedion University Okada, Nigeria’s first private university. He is from Okada town in Edo State.
Mitchell Elegbe made his fortune by founding Interswitch, a multi-billion dollar payment infrastructure company. Interswitch revolutionized electronic payments in Nigeria and developed the Verve card. He is a graduate of University of Benin.
The main wealth-making sectors include real estate, education, fintech, religion, politics, media, and traditional institutions. Edo State’s rich cultural heritage supports diverse business opportunities.
Yes, Lucky Igbinedion remains actively involved in Edo State politics. The former governor continues to influence political affairs in the state despite past controversies.
Edo State is called the “Heartbeat of the Nation” because of its rich cultural heritage as the heartland of the ancient Benin Kingdom. The state is famous for its bronze works, art, history, and cultural significance.
Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion is the Esama of Benin Kingdom. This is a prestigious traditional title that recognizes his contributions to the kingdom and his status as a prominent businessman and philanthropist.
Benin City, the state capital, has produced many of Edo State’s wealthiest individuals. Okada, Auchi, Iyamho, and other parts of the state have also produced successful businessmen and politicians.
Conclusion: Edo State’s Economic Leadership
The Top 10 Richest Men In Edo State 2025 And Their Net Worth shows the remarkable success stories from Nigeria’s historic “Heartbeat of the Nation.” From Gabriel Igbinedion’s $1 billion education and real estate empire to Mitchell Elegbe’s fintech revolution, these leaders have created massive value while contributing to Nigeria’s economic development.
Edo State’s richest people are a mix of traditional business magnates, tech innovators, religious leaders, and politicians – all natives of Edo State. Each contributes to the state’s economic and social development. Their success stories show how leveraging the state’s cultural heritage, combined with innovation and strategic investments, can create lasting fortunes.
What do you think about this ranking? Who deserves to be higher on the list? Share your thoughts about the Top 10 Richest Men In Edo State 2025 And Their Net Worth in the comments below!
Related Articles:
