When people hear Benue State, the first thing that usually comes to mind is food—yam, rice, oranges, mangoes, and the rich farmlands that feed Nigeria. No wonder the state is proudly called the “Food Basket of the Nation.” But let me shock you a little: Benue is not only about farming and agriculture. It’s also home to some of Nigeria’s richest and most influential people who have made their mark in politics, business, entertainment, and more.

Today, I want to gist you about the Top 10 Richest People from Benue State, their net worth, and how they made their money. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of Benue’s wealthiest.

1. Senator George Akume

If you’ve been following Nigerian politics, the name George Akume shouldn’t be strange to you. He is one of Benue’s biggest political heavyweights. From being a governor to a senator, and now the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Akume has climbed almost every political ladder available.

His wealth comes from politics, strategic investments, and his long stay in government circles. Over the years, Akume has built massive influence in Benue and Nigeria at large. Many even see him as the “godfather” of politics in the state.

Estimated Net Worth: $750 million

2. Gabriel Suswam

Another political big shot from Benue State is Gabriel Suswam, a lawyer and businessman who served as the former governor of the state. Suswam is well known for his investments in real estate, agriculture, and the energy sector.

Politics opened the door for him, but business helped him multiply his wealth. Love him or hate him, Suswam is one of the richest men to come out of Benue.

Estimated Net Worth: $700 million

3. David Mark

If Nigeria had a hall of fame for long-serving senators, David Mark would surely be there. The man was a senator for over 20 years and even served as the President of the Nigerian Senate for eight years.

Before politics, David Mark was a military man, and through the years, he invested heavily in real estate, oil, telecoms, and banking. His wealth runs deep, and he is not just a respected elder statesman in Benue but also a national figure.

Estimated Net Worth: $600 million

4. Samuel Ortom

Here comes another former governor of Benue State—Samuel Ortom. What makes Ortom’s story interesting is that he started from very humble beginnings, even working as a motor park tout at some point. Today, he is not just a politician but also a wealthy businessman.

Ortom owns businesses in printing, farming, and manufacturing, with his famous Oracle Business Group being one of the largest private companies in Benue. His journey from grass to grace is truly inspirational.

Estimated Net Worth: $500 million

5. Barnabas Gemade

Known for his influence in Nigerian politics and business, Barnabas Gemade has also built a strong financial empire. A former senator and one-time chairman of the ruling PDP, Gemade is a major player in real estate, construction, and agriculture.

His wealth is not as loudly displayed as others, but he remains one of Benue’s richest sons.

Estimated Net Worth: $400 million

6. Aper Aku Family

Now, let’s talk about legacy wealth. The Aper Aku family—descendants of the late Governor Aper Aku—are among the richest families in Benue. Though the former governor passed away many years ago, his investments in farming, real estate, and business still yield wealth for his children and relatives.

The family continues to be influential in politics, agriculture, and philanthropy within Benue State.

Estimated Net Worth: $350 million

7. Iyorchia Ayu

If you follow Nigerian politics, you’ll know that Iyorchia Ayu is not a small name. He has been Senate President, a minister several times, and until recently, the National Chairman of the PDP.

Ayu is a seasoned politician who has also built wealth through investments in real estate, consultancy, and agriculture. His long years in public service have translated into massive influence and financial power.

Estimated Net Worth: $300 million

8. Terna Suswam

Yes, you guessed right—he is related to Gabriel Suswam. Terna Suswam is also a wealthy son of Benue, with investments in oil, construction, and real estate. Though not as popular as his brother politically, Terna has built a fortune quietly, keeping his name mostly out of controversies.

Estimated Net Worth: $250 million

9. Steven Lawani

A seasoned businessman and politician, Steven Lawani has been deputy governor of Benue State and is also deeply rooted in the hospitality industry. He owns hotels, properties, and businesses within and outside Benue.

His political career may not have been as flamboyant as others, but financially, he has done very well for himself.

Estimated Net Worth: $200 million

10. Emmanuel Yisa Orker-Jev

Closing our list is Emmanuel Yisa Orker-Jev, another politician and businessman who has steadily built wealth through politics, law, and business ventures.

He may not be as flashy as some of the others on this list, but he is among the quiet rich men of Benue.

Estimated Net Worth: $150 million

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it—the top 10 richest people from Benue State. As you can see, politics plays a big role in wealth creation in the state. Almost every person on this list either started from politics or used political influence to boost their businesses.

But beyond politics, you’ll notice strong interests in real estate, agriculture, oil, and construction—industries that keep money flowing. It’s also worth mentioning that Benue, being the Food Basket of the Nation, has produced wealthy men who use agriculture as their gold mine.

Who knows? The next billionaire from Benue might not come from politics but from tech, entertainment, or even farming at a global scale. The future is wide open.