If you’ve ever thought Borno State is only about history, culture, and the unfortunate Boko Haram headlines, then you’ve been sleeping on a goldmine of wealthy personalities. Yes o! Borno is not just the “Home of Peace” (as it’s fondly called), it’s also home to some of the wealthiest and most influential individuals in Nigeria. From politicians to businessmen and power brokers, the state has produced heavyweights who are not only rich but also shape the economy and society in unique ways.

So, grab your zobo or kunu, sit tight, and let’s take a deep dive into the lives of the top 10 richest people from Borno State. Trust me, you’ll be surprised at how much influence these individuals wield.

1. Alhaji Mohammed Indimi

When you’re talking about rich men in Borno State, and you don’t mention Mohammed Indimi, then the gist is not complete. This man is a billionaire in dollars! He is the founder and chairman of Oriental Energy Resources, a private oil and gas company.

Indimi is not just rich, he is filthy rich. Forbes once listed him among Africa’s dollar billionaires. Apart from his oil wealth, he has investments in real estate, banking, and other sectors. His philanthropy is also top-notch; he has given out scholarships, built housing estates, and supported education both in Borno and across Nigeria.

Fun fact? He’s the father-in-law of President Muhammadu Buhari’s daughter, Zahra. Now you see, the man is not just wealthy, he’s connected.

2. Kashim Shettima

The current Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, is another big fish from Borno State. Before politics, he was already successful in the banking industry, working with Zenith Bank and other financial institutions. But politics gave him a bigger stage.

He was the Governor of Borno State for eight years, later became a Senator, and today he’s the Vice President of Nigeria. Shettima is not only politically powerful but also financially comfortable. His investments cut across real estate, agriculture, and banking. And honestly, it’s hard to separate his political influence from his financial muscle.

3. Ali Modu Sheriff

Talk about influence and money, and Senator Ali Modu Sheriff’s name will ring loud. He was once a governor of Borno State and has been deeply involved in Nigerian politics for decades.

Sheriff is also a businessman, with interests in aviation, oil, and other sectors. Many people believe he is one of the wealthiest politicians not just in Borno but in Nigeria as a whole. His ability to bankroll political campaigns and maintain influence across different governments shows the depth of his pockets.

4. Babagana Umara Zulum

The current Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, might be known more for his hard work and dedication than for flaunting wealth, but don’t be deceived—this man is not broke.

Before politics, Zulum was an academic and civil servant, rising to the position of Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement in Borno. As governor, he has attracted huge projects and investments into the state. While his personal wealth may not be as loud as Indimi’s, his influence and access to resources make him one of the most powerful men from Borno today.

5. Mamman Nur Alkali (Business Tycoon)

Though not as popular as the political big names, Mamman Nur Alkali is a respected businessman from Borno State. He has investments in agriculture, real estate, and trading. His influence is more local, but his financial strength is undeniable.

Many say he’s one of the quiet billionaires from the state who doesn’t like noise but does big things behind the scenes. You know those rich uncles who don’t show off but can change your life with one phone call? That’s Mamman Nur Alkali.

6. Mohammed Wakil

Mohammed Wakil, a former Minister of State for Power, is another wealthy son of Borno. With a strong background in law and politics, Wakil made his fortune from both politics and private business.

As a minister, he handled major projects, and after leaving office, he continued his private investments. His wealth comes from real estate, consultancy, and corporate engagements. Though he stays more in the shadows these days, Wakil’s name still commands respect in Borno State and beyond.

7. Audu Ogbeh (by Marriage/Family Ties)

Now, you might be surprised to see Audu Ogbeh on this list, but there’s a strong family tie with Borno through marriage and extended connections. Ogbeh, a former Minister of Agriculture, has wealth rooted in agribusiness and politics. His ties with wealthy families in Borno have also expanded his network and influence.

8. Zanna Bukar Mustapha

Zanna Bukar Mustapha is a lawyer and humanitarian from Borno State who has not only built wealth but also a reputation. He runs schools and organizations that help children orphaned by the insurgency. While he may not be in the billionaire category like Indimi, his wealth in influence and resources puts him among the richest people in the state.

9. Abba Kyari (Late)

The late Abba Kyari, who was the Chief of Staff to President Buhari until his death in 2020, hailed from Borno State. During his lifetime, Kyari was one of the most powerful men in Nigeria, controlling access to the president.

He was also wealthy, with investments in law, banking, and business. Even in death, his legacy as one of Borno’s richest and most influential personalities lives on.

10. Zainab Ahmed (Influence by Origin/Connections)

Zainab Ahmed, the former Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, has strong ties to Borno through family and connections. During her tenure, she was one of the most powerful women in Nigeria, managing the nation’s purse.

Her influence and access to resources, combined with her personal wealth, make her one of the wealthiest personalities connected to Borno State.

The Bigger Picture: Wealth in Borno State

Now, one thing you must understand is that in Borno State, wealth is often tied to politics, oil, and business. Unlike Lagos where tech bros are minting money or Anambra where traders dominate, Borno’s richest people are a mix of oil moguls, politicians, and businessmen with strong federal connections.

The insurgency in the state has slowed down private investments, but despite that, these individuals have managed to rise, thrive, and even extend their wealth beyond Borno.

Conclusion

So there you have it—the top 10 richest people from Borno State. From Mohammed Indimi’s oil billions to Kashim Shettima’s political power, and Ali Modu Sheriff’s influence, it’s clear that Borno has produced some serious heavyweights.

The lesson? Don’t ever underestimate the North. While Lagos and Abuja may look like the only places where money flows, the truth is, Borno State has quietly nurtured billionaires and influential figures who shape Nigeria’s politics and economy.

So, next time someone tells you Borno is just about insurgency, kindly school them with this list and let them know that the state also boasts of some of the richest and most influential people in Nigeria.