Nigeria is a nation with a rich cultural tapestry, home to over 250 ethnic groups. Each of these groups has its own unique culture, language, and traditions, and some are particularly known for their wealth and influence.
Despite the shrinking middle class and the fact that 63 percent of Nigerians are classified as poor (according to the National Bureau of Statistics), there are still many wealthy individuals who have built fortunes in sectors like business, politics, education, entertainment, oil and gas, and more.
This article highlights the affluent tribes in Nigeria that are home to a significant number of high-net-worth individuals.
Which Tribe is the Richest in Nigeria?
The Igbo tribe is undoubtedly one of the richest tribes in Nigeria. They boast the highest number of wealthy individuals, including billionaires and millionaires. Known for their exceptional business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit, the Igbo people are widely regarded as the most skilled in wealth creation, making the Igbo tribe not only the wealthiest in Nigeria but also one of the most affluent in Africa.
Richest Tribes in Nigeria (2025)
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 richest tribes in Nigeria, considering factors such as their economic influence, natural resources, and cultural impact.
Yoruba Tribe
The Yoruba people are one of the largest and most influential ethnic groups in Nigeria, with a population of over 40 million. Primarily located in the southwestern part of the country, they are celebrated for their rich cultural heritage, including music, dance, and art.
The Yoruba are also known for their economic influence, with many holding prominent positions in politics, business, and other sectors. Some of the wealthiest Yoruba individuals include Mike Adenuga, one of Africa’s richest men, and Femi Otedola, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Hausa Tribe
The Hausa people are one of the largest and most influential ethnic groups in Nigeria, with a population of over 30 million. Primarily located in the northern part of the country, they are known for their rich cultural traditions, including music, dance, and crafts.
The Hausa tribe boasts the highest number of billionaires in Nigeria, thanks to their extensive investments and business ventures both within the country and internationally. The Hausa people are also recognized for their economic strength, with many involved in trade, agriculture, and other sectors.
Some of the wealthiest Hausa individuals include Mohammed Indimi, Umaru Abdul Mutallab, Muhammad Sanusi II (the former Emir of Kano and former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria), and Isa Muhammadu Inuwa, among others.
Igbo Tribe
The Igbo people, aside from being the richest tribe in Nigeria, are an ethnic group primarily located in the southeastern part of the country. They are celebrated for their strong cultural traditions and remarkable economic influence. Known for their entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach to business, many Igbo individuals have achieved great success in sectors such as trade, agriculture, and banking.
Some of the wealthiest Igbo individuals include Jim Ovia, the founder of Zenith Bank; Tony Elumelu, a prominent businessman and philanthropist; Arthur Eze, a billionaire oil magnate; Emeka Offor, a successful industrialist; Peter Obi, a former governor and business leader; and Orji Uzor Kalu, a businessman and politician, among others.
Fulani Tribe
The Fulani people are one of the strongest tribes in Nigeria and are spread across various regions of the country. Known for their rich cultural traditions and economic influence, they are heavily involved in trade and agriculture. Many Fulani individuals have achieved significant success in these sectors. Some of the wealthiest Fulani people include Aliko Dangote, one of the richest men in the world, and Abdullahi Dantata, a billionaire businessman.
Kanuri Tribe
The Kanuri people are primarily found in northeastern Nigeria and are celebrated for their strong cultural heritage and economic power. They are actively involved in trade and agriculture, with many achieving success in these fields. Some of the richest Kanuri individuals include Sani Dauda, among others.
Edo Tribe
The Edo people are predominantly located in southwestern Nigeria and are known for their rich cultural traditions and economic strength. They are heavily involved in trade and agriculture, with many achieving notable success. Some of the wealthiest Edo individuals include the Igbinedion family, one of the richest in the country, and Osaretin Demuren, a successful businessman.
Tiv Tribe
The Tiv people are another tribe that has produced many wealthy individuals across various sectors, including agriculture, sports, entertainment, business, and politics. They are primarily found in Benue, Plateau, Taraba, and Nasarawa States. Some notable wealthy Tiv individuals include Gabriel Suswam, James Iorzua Ayatse, Samuel Ortom, Barnabas Andyar Gemode, and Terhemba Shija.
Ibibio Tribe
The Ibibio people are the dominant ethnic group in parts of Cross River State and the oil-rich Akwa Ibom State. Many Ibibio individuals have amassed wealth through commerce, real estate, oil and gas, politics, entertainment, and other sectors. Some of the wealthiest Ibibio people include Ita Enang, Akanimo Asuquo Udofia, Aloysius Etuk, Udo Udoma, and Victor Bassey Attah.
Ijaw Tribe
The Ijaw people primarily reside in the Niger Delta region, especially in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States, with smaller populations in Edo and Ondo States. Many Ijaw individuals have built wealth in sectors like oil and gas, politics, commerce, education, real estate, transportation, and sports. Notable wealthy Ijaw individuals include Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Agbani Darego, Edwin Clarke, Henry Seriake Dickson, Ben Murray-Bruce, Ibinabo Fiberesima, and Timipre Sylva.
Urhobo Tribe
The Urhobo people are one of the richest tribes in Nigeria and the dominant ethnic group in Delta State. Many Urhobo individuals have accumulated significant wealth through politics and various economic sectors. Some prominent wealthy Urhobo individuals include Ovie Omo-Agege, Igho Sanomi, Godwin Agofure, the Ibru family, and Ayiri Emami.
Itsekiri Tribe
Although a minority tribe in Nigeria, the Itsekiri people are primarily found in Warri South and Warri North local government areas in Delta State, with smaller populations in Edo and Ondo States. Despite their small size, the Itsekiri have made significant contributions to various economic sectors. Notable wealthy Itsekiri individuals include Grace Alele Williams, Emmanuel Uduaghan, Ayo Oritsejafor, and Festus Okotie-Eboh.