Benue State Billionaires: Top 10 Richest Men In Benue State
If you thought Benue State was only famous for producing yams, cassava, and colourful Tiv dance steps, think again. Beneath those fertile plains and cultural heritage lies a new kind of harvest: money. Big money.
Today, we’re diving into the world of the top 10 richest men in Benue State. From the political powerhouses to business moguls, spiritual giants to entertainment icons, these are the men who have risen from local roots to national (and even international) influence.
So grab a chilled Zobo, sit back, and let’s explore who’s stacking up the millions and billions in the Food Basket of the Nation. Spoiler alert: some of these names might surprise you.
1. Terry Waya – The Socialite Real Estate Tycoon
Estimated Net Worth: $300 million
Terry Waya, often described as Nigeria’s very own Mr. Versace, is one of the most flamboyant figures to come out of Benue State. Known more recently as Kiddwaya’s father (yes, the BBNaija star), Waya made his fortune primarily through high-end real estate deals in London, Abuja, and beyond.
His taste for luxury is evident—from private parties attended by politicians to properties located in places some of us can’t even pronounce. Despite some controversies surrounding his wealth, one thing is clear: Terry Waya is a heavyweight when it comes to money.
2. Senator David Mark – The Political Investor
Estimated Net Worth: $200 million
A retired army general turned political giant, David Mark served as Nigeria’s Senate President for eight years and as a Senator for over two decades. But he didn’t stop at politics. Mark has extensive investments in real estate, oil and gas, and international businesses.
He’s proof that if you play your political cards right and back it up with smart investments, you can build an empire. The man’s financial influence is just as towering as his political legacy.
3. Innocent "2Baba" Idibia – The Music Legend Turned Mogul
Estimated Net Worth: $20 million
Yes, 2Baba is not just about timeless music and smooth vocals. The Benue-born legend has turned his music fame into a business empire. From endorsement deals with big brands to investments in nightclubs, real estate, and NGOs, 2Baba has diversified beyond beats.
If there’s one person who showed us you can sing your way into the millionaires’ club, it’s Innocent Idibia.
4. Dr. Paul Enenche – The Spiritual Powerhouse
Estimated Net Worth: $12 million
Dr. Paul Enenche, the founder and Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, hails from Benue State. Known for his energetic sermons and jaw-dropping church structures, including the Glory Dome in Abuja, Dr. Enenche has created an empire that spans beyond the pulpit.
With multiple properties, schools, hospitals, and bestselling books, this man of God is also a man of means.
5. Athanasius Kyausu – The Businessman with Local Roots
Estimated Net Worth: $5 million
Kyausu, from Vandeikya, is the CEO of Kyabiz Group. His company dabbles in oil and gas, construction, hospitality, and real estate. If you’ve stayed in one of Makurdi’s nicer hotels, there’s a good chance it’s part of his portfolio.
He might not make headlines like some others on this list, but in the business world, his name commands serious respect.
6. Ogenyi Onazi – The Football Star
Estimated Net Worth: $5 million
Ogenyi Onazi, one of Nigeria’s midfield heroes, hails from Benue. He’s played professionally in Italy, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. His wealth comes from salaries, bonuses, and endorsement deals.
Onazi is proof that talent plus determination equals financial success—with some world-class footwork, of course.
7. Senator George Akume – The Veteran Politician
Estimated Net Worth: $3 million
Former Governor of Benue State, current Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and a long-serving senator, Akume has earned his seat among the richest in Benue.
He has holdings in agriculture, property, and hospitality, and remains a key political influencer across the country.
8. Gabriel Suswam – The Legal Eagle with Deep Pockets
Estimated Net Worth: $3 million
Suswam, another former Governor of Benue State, is also a lawyer and senator. He owns properties across Nigeria and has investments in agriculture and media.
He might not be as loud as some others on this list, but make no mistake—he’s a major player in both politics and finance.
9. Samuel Ortom – The Farmer-Governor
Estimated Net Worth: $3-6 million
Before politics, Ortom was a successful businessman. As governor (2015–2023), he maintained ties to his cassava and poultry farming business, Oracle Farms.
A passionate promoter of agriculture, Ortom proved that you can wear agbada on Monday and gum boots on Friday—and still cash out both ways.
10. Michael Ornguga Mku (Mike Mku) – The Philanthropic Entrepreneur
Estimated Net Worth: $2 million
Mike Mku, a Gboko native, is well-known in Benue for his philanthropic work and political activism. He has business interests in real estate, consultancy, and community development.
He may not be topping the charts, but his influence and giving spirit have earned him immense respect and a solid financial standing.
🌟 Summary Table: Richest Men in Benue State
S/N | Name | Estimated Net Worth | Main Source(s) of Wealth | Known For |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Terry Waya | $300 million | Real Estate, Oil & Gas | Lavish lifestyle, Kiddwaya’s father |
2 | Senator David Mark | $200 million | Politics, Real Estate, Offshore Holdings | Longest-serving Senate President |
3 | Innocent "2Baba" Idibia | $20 million | Music, Endorsements, Real Estate | Afrobeats legend |
4 | Dr. Paul Enenche | $12 million | Religion, Books, Education | Dunamis Gospel Centre founder |
5 | Athanasius Kyausu | $5 million | Oil & Gas, Hospitality | CEO of Kyabiz Group |
6 | Ogenyi Onazi | $5 million | Professional Football | Ex-Super Eagles midfielder |
7 | Senator George Akume | $3 million | Politics, Agriculture, Real Estate | Former Governor and SGF |
8 | Gabriel Suswam | $3 million | Politics, Agriculture, Media | Ex-Governor, Senator |
9 | Samuel Ortom | $3–6 million | Agriculture, Politics | Cassava & poultry farming, ex-Governor |
10 | Michael Ornguga Mku | $2 million | Real Estate, Consultancy | Businessman and philanthropist |
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the big 10 of Benue. From luxurious real estate to heart-pounding football fields, from the pulpit to political podiums, Benue State is producing not just food, but financial giants.
The common thread? Vision, hustle, and the boldness to dream big. Whether they started in Makurdi, Otukpo, or Vandeikya, these men are examples of what’s possible when determination meets opportunity.
And who knows? Maybe the next big name on this list will be yours. So, keep grinding, keep dreaming, and don’t forget your roots. After all, even the tallest tree started as a seed.