When you hear “Kaduna State,” what comes to your mind? For many Nigerians, it’s a state with deep history, vibrant culture, and one of the most influential regions in the north. Kaduna has produced some of Nigeria’s finest leaders, businessmen, and professionals who have made their mark not just locally but on the national and global stage.

Today, we’re diving into the top 10 richest indigenes of Kaduna State — sons and daughters of the soil who have built wealth through politics, business, oil, law, and more. Sit back, relax, and let’s gist like true Nigerians.

1. Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai

Former Governor & Businessman

If we’re talking about money, influence, and visibility, then Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai cannot be left out. Born in Daudawa, Faskari (now Katsina), but raised in Kaduna and strongly rooted as an indigene, El-Rufai is one of the most recognized politicians in Nigeria.

He first rose to national prominence as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under President Olusegun Obasanjo, where he earned a reputation as a strict reformer. Later, he became the Governor of Kaduna State (2015–2023), where he pushed through tough reforms in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Outside politics, El-Rufai has a thriving business background. He co-founded a successful quantity surveying firm in the 1980s that handled contracts for big oil companies. He has also made wise investments in real estate and technology.

Estimated Net Worth: $400 million+

2. Namadi Sambo

Former Vice President of Nigeria

Next on our list is Arc. Namadi Sambo, born and bred in Zaria, Kaduna State. He studied architecture at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and later went into private practice before joining politics.

Namadi Sambo served as Governor of Kaduna State (2007–2010) before being chosen by President Goodluck Jonathan as Vice President of Nigeria (2010–2015). During his time in government, he wielded enormous influence and built strong business ties.

While not always loud in the media, Sambo has solid real estate investments, architectural consultancy businesses, and shares in companies across Nigeria. He’s the kind of wealthy Kaduna man who prefers to keep his riches quiet.

Estimated Net Worth: $200 million

3. Ahmed Makarfi

Politician, Banker & Businessman

Born in Makarfi Local Government, Kaduna State, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi is another influential indigene with deep pockets. Trained as an accountant at Ahmadu Bello University, he worked in the banking sector before venturing into politics.

Makarfi served as Governor of Kaduna State (1999–2007) and later as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He also acted as the PDP National Caretaker Committee Chairman at a turbulent time in the party’s history.

Beyond politics, Makarfi has investments in banking, agriculture, and education. His time in public service gave him both wealth and influence that he continues to wield today.

Estimated Net Worth: $150 million

4. Datti Baba-Ahmed

Businessman & Politician

If you followed the 2023 elections closely, the name Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed should ring a loud bell. He was the Vice-Presidential candidate of the Labour Party alongside Peter Obi. But long before politics, Datti Baba-Ahmed was already wealthy.

He is the founder of Baze University, Abuja — one of the most expensive private universities in Nigeria. Apart from education, Baba-Ahmed has built businesses in banking, real estate, and agriculture.

Coming from a respected Kaduna family, he has successfully blended business with politics while staying influential in national affairs.

Estimated Net Worth: $120 million

5. Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi

Politician & Businessman

Suleiman Hunkuyi hails from Kudan Local Government in Kaduna State. He has worn many hats — teacher, local government chairman, commissioner, and later senator.

Hunkuyi made most of his wealth from politics, real estate, and agriculture. He is known for his expansive farmlands and properties across Kaduna and Abuja. Though not as flashy as some others on this list, his financial standing makes him one of the richest indigenes of Kaduna.

Estimated Net Worth: $50 million

6. Shehu Sani

Activist, Politician & Businessman

When you hear Shehu Sani, what comes to mind? For many Nigerians, it’s activism, outspoken politics, and fearless commentary. Born in Kaduna, Sani has been a human rights activist since the Abacha years.

He later became a Senator representing Kaduna Central (2015–2019) and used that opportunity to build his political influence and wealth.

Beyond politics, Shehu Sani runs businesses in publishing, oil services, and property investments. He is not just a politician but also a man who has leveraged his activism into a career that pays.

Estimated Net Worth: $40 million

7. Mukhtar Ramalan Yero

Politician & Businessman

Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, another son of Kaduna, served as Governor of Kaduna State (2012–2015) after the death of Patrick Yakowa. Before politics, Yero was an accountant and businessman.

He has investments in real estate, construction, and agriculture, which boosted his financial profile during and after his governorship.

While he may not be as outspoken as others, Yero remains one of the wealthier indigenes of the state.

Estimated Net Worth: $35 million

8. Hadiza Bala Usman

Politician & Administrator

It’s not just the men; Kaduna has also produced wealthy and powerful women. Hadiza Bala Usman is one of them. Born in Zaria, she is a politician, activist, and administrator.

She served as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), becoming the first woman to hold the position. That role placed her at the heart of Nigeria’s maritime economy — and trust me, there’s serious money there.

Hadiza has investments in consulting, public policy, and real estate, making her one of the wealthiest female indigenes of Kaduna State.

Estimated Net Worth: $30 million

9. Isa Ashiru Kudan

Politician & Businessman

Isa Ashiru Kudan is another wealthy indigene of Kaduna State. He has contested multiple times for the governorship of the state under different political parties.

Apart from politics, he has amassed wealth through real estate, international business partnerships, and agriculture. Ashiru may not have held the governorship seat yet, but his financial standing keeps him influential in Kaduna politics.

Estimated Net Worth: $25 million

10. Mohammed Sani Abdullahi (Dattijo)

Technocrat & Politician

Last but not least is Mohammed Sani Abdullahi (Dattijo), a younger Kaduna indigene making waves. He served as the Commissioner for Planning & Budget in Kaduna State under El-Rufai and later became a Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Economic Matters.

While relatively younger than others on this list, Dattijo has already built wealth through consultancy, international development work, and politics. Many believe his influence will continue to grow.

💰 Estimated Net Worth: $10 million

Final Thoughts

Kaduna State has produced some of Nigeria’s most powerful and wealthy individuals. From ex-governors to vice presidents, from activists to business moguls, these indigenes have built legacies that continue to shape Nigeria’s economy and politics.

Their stories remind us that Kaduna is not just a state of history and culture — it’s also a hub of wealth and influence.

So, the next time you hear someone talk about Kaduna, just know you’re talking about a land that has produced billionaires (in naira and dollars) who are still very much active in shaping Nigeria’s destiny.