Insight

• Infinity Media
• 6 Min Read

Bayelsa State Billionaires: Top 10 Richest Men In Bayelsa State

Bayelsa State might be one of Nigeria's smallest states, but when it comes to producing big names and even bigger bank accounts, it has carved out a reputation. This little but mighty state, located in the heart of the Niger Delta, has gifted us some of the most influential, wealthy, and fascinating personalities in Nigeria.

Let me be real with you—when people say, "Bayelsa," the first thing that comes to mind is oil. And rightly so. This state is swimming in black gold. But guess what? Not everyone rich in Bayelsa got there just by drilling oil. Some used brains, some used power, and others just knew how to position themselves at the right place and time.

In this post, we're taking a closer look at the top 10 richest men in Bayelsa State as of 2025. And no, this isn't your average boring list. We’re diving into their stories, personalities, how they made their money, and why their names are ringing bells all over Nigeria.

So, grab a drink (or a snack), and let’s talk money, influence, and good ol’ Bayelsa hustle.

1. Chief Timipre Sylva

Estimated Net Worth: Several billion naira
Main Industry: Oil & Gas, Politics, Real Estate

Let’s kick off this list with one of Bayelsa’s most talked-about political figures. Chief Timipre Sylva has had quite the political career, having served as the Governor of Bayelsa State and later as Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources.

Beyond politics, Sylva is also a businessman. Over the years, he has used his influence and access to tap into Nigeria’s most lucrative sector—oil. His real estate portfolio is also not to be overlooked. From sprawling properties in Abuja to quiet estates in Yenagoa, Sylva has been stacking up investments like Tetris blocks.

He might not be the loudest in the room, but when it comes to oil money and connections, he's a heavyweight.

2. Ben Murray-Bruce

Estimated Net Worth: Over $200 million (unconfirmed)
Main Industry: Media, Entertainment, Politics

Ah, the "Common Sense Senator"! Ben Murray-Bruce is a name that resonates beyond Bayelsa. He’s the founder of Silverbird Group, a conglomerate that includes television, radio, cinemas, and pageants like Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria.

This media mogul has combined business flair with political ambition. He served as a Senator representing Bayelsa East and became known for his outspoken nature and advocacy for youth empowerment and innovation.

Ben is stylish, charismatic, and effortlessly witty—basically, the cool uncle every family wants. But behind that charm is a businessman who knows how to turn ideas into millions.

3. Timi Alaibe

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Oil Services, Public Administration

Timi Alaibe may not have held an executive political office, but he has wielded significant influence over the years. He served as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), where he pushed forward developmental projects across the region.

Outside public service, Alaibe is deeply rooted in the oil servicing sector. He has business interests in logistics, construction, and other areas that support Nigeria's energy industry. Soft-spoken but strategic, Timi is proof that quiet moves can make the loudest impact.

4. David Lyon

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Oil & Gas

David Lyon is a businessman who became a political celebrity overnight. He was declared the winner of the Bayelsa governorship election in 2019, only for the victory to be overturned just before inauguration. Talk about a dramatic plot twist.

But long before politics came knocking, Lyon was already a big player in Bayelsa’s oil and gas sector. His company, Darlon Oil & Gas, has grown significantly and continues to thrive. Despite his short-lived moment in the political limelight, his wealth and business acumen remain intact.

5. Chief Francis Doukpola

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Oil, Real Estate, Agriculture

A respected traditional leader and businessman, Chief Francis Doukpola blends cultural leadership with boardroom prowess. His investments cut across oil and gas, agricultural development, and real estate holdings.

When people talk about dignified wealth—the kind that doesn’t need Instagram validation—this is the guy they mean. You won’t see him on the news every day, but trust me, his financial influence is undeniable.

6. Preye Aganaba

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Telecom, Oil & Gas, Real Estate

Preye Aganaba is a dynamic businessman who knows how to play his cards well. He has interests in telecommunications and oil, and his real estate ventures keep expanding. In Bayelsa's elite circles, his name commands respect.

He’s the kind of guy who understands that diversification is the name of the game. One foot in oil, another in real estate, and a third (if he had one) probably in tech.

7. Kenebai Opokuma

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Oil & Gas, Real Estate

If you're discussing movers and shakers in Bayelsa’s oil sector, Kenebai Opokuma has to be on the list. His rise in the oil industry is backed by years of hard work, risk-taking, and smart investments.

Real estate is another area where he’s planted deep roots. Owning properties in both urban and developing areas has proven to be a strategic goldmine.

8. Chief Ebitimi Banigo

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Finance, Oil & Gas, Real Estate

Chief Ebitimi Banigo is one of those rare people who have combined a background in finance with success in oil. As the founder of Banigo Holdings, he’s had stakes in banks, energy firms, and property developments.

Educated, globally connected, and fiercely private, Banigo is a symbol of old-school wealth that keeps evolving with time.

9. George Ikoli

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Law, Oil & Gas, Real Estate

A successful lawyer and businessman, George Ikoli is a name that has grown steadily over the years. He has represented big clients in the oil industry and used his earnings wisely.

He has also ventured into real estate, where his investments continue to yield massive returns. Think of him as someone who went from courtroom to boardroom without missing a beat.

10. Azibola Robert

Estimated Net Worth: Billions of naira
Main Industry: Construction, Oil & Gas, Environment

Azibola Robert is a man of many talents. A lawyer and engineer by training, he is the founder of Kakatar Group and Zeetin Engineering. His companies are involved in construction, infrastructure, and environmental projects.

Robert is passionate about sustainable development and has been recognized for his work in ecological preservation. He is building wealth, but he’s also trying to save the planet while at it.

Summary Table: Richest Men in Bayelsa State (2025)

Final Thoughts

If there’s one thing this list proves, it’s that Bayelsa is more than just oil spills and politics. It’s a place of opportunity, strategy, and incredible resilience. These men have walked different paths—some through government, some through business, some through sheer innovation—but they’ve all arrived at the same destination: success.

So whether you’re a young graduate in Yenagoa or a startup founder in Sagbama, let this list inspire you. Bayelsa has done it before, and guess what? It can do it again—this time with you on the list.

Because in Bayelsa, the hustle is real, and so are the rewards.