When people hear “Rivers State,” their minds often drift to oil, power, and Port Harcourt's urban buzz. Yet behind the bustling port city lies a roster of men who’ve gathered wealth and influence like few others. Whether building oil infrastructures, governing, banking, or championing community development, their stories are as inspiring as they are instructive.

Without further ado, let’s spotlight Rivers State’s top ten richest living indigenes.

1. Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs – The Silent Oil Powerhouse (≈ $500 Million)

Reigning supreme in Rivers State’s wealthiest rankings is Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, with an estimated net worth of $500 million.

Chief Lulu-Briggs oversees the DLB Group and Platform Petroleum Limited, expanding on his father’s legacy, initiated with Moni Pulo Limited. Beyond oil, he’s deeply devoted to philanthropy—supporting education, healthcare, and youth empowerment programs across Rivers State. Modest and low-key, he still holds powerful sway in business and community development.

2. Felix A. Obuah – Construction, Oil Services, and Real Estate Mogul (≈ $900 Million)

Surprisingly high on the list is Felix A. Obuah, estimated to be worth a staggering $900 million.

Obuah heads the Obuah Group, with major holdings in construction, oil services, and real estate. His enterprises built many landmark projects across Rivers State, and his comprehensive network in engineering and oil servicing continues to fuel his consolidated influence and wealth.

3. Tonye Cole – Energy Magnate Turned Real Estate Visionary (≈ $850 Million)

Following closely is Tonye Cole, co-founder of Sahara Group, valued at around $850 million.

Under his leadership, Sahara Group expanded operations to numerous African countries, as well as into power generation, infrastructure, and logistics. Cole also pioneered youth-focused philanthropy through the Sahara Foundation, mentoring future leaders and supporting education.

4. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike – Political Giant with Real Estate Empire (≈ $200 Million)

Ranking next is Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, former Governor of Rivers State and current FCT Minister, with an estimated net worth of $200 million.

Wike is known for leveraging his political trajectory into strategic real estate investments, particularly in Port Harcourt and Abuja. His time in office was marked by infrastructure growth and urban renewal, further expanding both his wealth and influence.

5. King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III – Monarch and Economic Power Broker (≈ $190 Million)

The reigning King Edward Pepple III of the Bonny Kingdom is estimated to possess $190 million in net worth.

Through his status as monarch, he controls critical land holdings and commands traditional influence in one of Nigeria’s most oil-rich coastal regions. His wealth stems from royal revenues, cultural authority, and strategic infrastructure engagements.

6. Atedo Peterside – Banking Guru and Air Mogul (≈ $120 Million)

Atedo Peterside, founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank, is estimated at $120 million.

A respected economist, he built a solid financial institution and added aviation to his investments with Anap Jets. Known for championing good governance, Peterside has elevated Rivers State’s reputation as a breeding ground for thought leaders.

7. Emmanuel Georgewill – Subsea Engineering Entrepreneur (≈ $100 Million)

Estimated at $100 million, Emmanuel Georgewill is the CEO of Cortech Oil Services, a leading offshore and subsea engineering firm.

Georgewill carved out a niche in servicing major international oil companies, providing critical technical expertise. His commitment to youth training programs further positions him as an industry leader rooted in community development.

8. Tein George – Hotelier with Engineering Roots (≈ $95 Million)

With a net worth of $95 million, Tein George combines engineering prowess with hospitality success.

He’s chairman of Seametric Engineering and owner of George’s Hotel in Lagos—merging technical know-how with luxury service. He frequently supports initiatives for skill acquisition and tourism in Rivers State.

9. George Etomi – Legal Luminary and Corporate Director (≈ $90 Million)

George Etomi, founder of George Etomi & Partners, holds an estimated net worth of $90 million.

A stalwart in corporate law, he serves on major boards like Eko Electricity Distribution Company, guiding regulatory frameworks and legal best practices in the oil and power sectors. Ethically influential, he remains a respected mentor to aspiring lawyers.

10. Tein Jack-Rich – Indigenous Oil Producer and Community Builder (≈ $90 Million)

Closing the top ten is Tein Jack-Rich, founder of Belemaoil Producing Limited, estimated to be worth $90 million.

Belonging to an oil-producing community, he pioneered indigenous participation in oil exploration, creating jobs and engaging local stakeholders. His philanthropic outreach includes schools, scholarships, and water projects.

Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The stories of these distinguished figures illustrate Rivers State’s wealth ecosystem—a complex tapestry of oil, finance, infrastructure, law, and royal stewardship. Many blend inherited advantage with strategic acumen, building businesses that foster community growth. Their legacies remind us that true prosperity is not just about accumulation; it’s about impact, leadership, and strategic vision.

Let me know if you’d like a follow-up post on influential women in Rivers State or a visual infographic version for easier sharing.